In your basketball career, there’s a good chance you’ll get hit with the injury bug during the season. Most players deal with injuries that make them miss practices, maybe a few games, and some may put them out for the season.
There’s good news—You can actually become a better player after getting injured. It sounds crazy, I know. But while getting sidelined is frustrating, being resilient with an injury will make you better than before.
With Derrick Rose about to make his triumphant return to the League, let’s take a look at how he dealt with his injury.
“If anything, I think I’m going to be a better player. I’m just taking my time, being patient, doing all the right things and really eating right and getting rest. I’m way stronger. Just seeing how I’m going to put that in my game, I don’t know yet.”
That quote was from Rose, last season, when the Bulls were struggling to make the playoffs without him. While Rose was injured all last year he was in the weight room, not just rehabbing his knee, but getting stronger physically. This guaranteed that when he came back, he would be stronger than he was before he got injured. Working out also showed his teammates that he was dedicated to the team.
Rose’s coach, Tom Thibodeau, talked about Rose’s commitment to the team, “[Rose’s] confidence doesn’t come from a false bravado. It comes from his preparation, his study and the work he puts into every day. The best thing about him is he’s a team-first guy. He’s committed to playing for the team, and that’s special.’’
When you’re sidelined, it’s important to take a step back and get some perspective on your game. Think about the strengths and weaknesses, of the team and of yourself. Ask your coach and teammates what they think you can do to improve—and then do it.
Rose has become a more efficient player. He recognized he took a lot of bad shots and that ultimately hurt the whole team. He realized this while he was injured and really started to study his game.
Asking yourself what you can do to help the team when you get back on the floor will give you confidence. This confidence will make your impact immediate, and you and your team will be better!