Set the Goal, Chase the Dream

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In basketball and in life, if you don’t know where you’re going, it’s easy to get lost. That’s why goals matter.

Goals are targets you set for yourself—something to work toward. They give you direction, focus, and motivation. A goal can be as big as earning a D1 scholarship or as simple as improving your left hand. The key is to know why it matters to you and how you’re going to get there.

When setting goals, start with something called a SMART goal. That means your goal should be:

  • Specific: Be clear. Don’t just say “get better.” Say “make 100 free throws every day.”
  • Measurable: Make sure you can track your progress. “I will make 100/125 free throws (80%)
  • Achievable: Challenge yourself, but be realistic. (What is a challenging percentage that you can reach; 100% out of 100 free throws isn’t realistic.)
  • Relevant: Pick goals that matter to you and your journey. (Making free throws matters because it will help you score more and help us win more.)
  • Time-bound: Set a deadline. It creates urgency and accountability.

Here’s an example: “I want to increase my vertical by 3 inches by the start of next season by doing jump training 4x a week.”

Big dreams start with small, consistent steps. Don’t wait for someone to push you—push yourself. Write your goals down. Revisit them. Adjust them. And most of all—work for them.

Your future isn’t given. It’s earned. One goal at a time.

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