Tip-Off

As tip off grows near, my heart beats faster
and the blood rushes through my veins.
Twenty minutes left. Still plenty of time.
Warm ups continue: Three man weave,
two line lay ups, two on one.

15 minutes left. Locker room.
Coach gives the same speech.
“Don't be lazy. Concentrate. No turnovers.
Box out. Run the fast break. HUSTLE!”

5 minutes later. Back to warm ups.
Foul shots. Two shooters.
Concentrate as the crowd slowly enters.
Feel the eyes as the watch you.
Feel the pressure as they watch.
Doesn't matter. Make your shots.

Three minutes left. Bench.
Last words from coach.
“Work hard!
If you need a break, tell me.
Relax. Enjoy the game.”

Tip off.
The tension falls away.
I settle into the flow of the game.
I am in control.
No nervousness. No tension.
I practiced all week for this.
I am ready.
My heart beat slows.
The crowd is no longer important.
Every second counts.
Every action is analyzed.
I am in my zone
and all is well.