The 2012 Men’s Olympic team displayed stellar performance and a strong mental toughness throughout the Games culminating with the thrilling 107-100 win over Spain for the gold medal. These players are the cream of the NBA, so they are known for their basketball mental toughness, basketball confidence and prowess.
However, many of the players for other teams are also professional NBA players, so a USA win is no longer considered a given. Utilizing their physical skills as well as the mental game for basketball proved to be the deciding factors in securing the ultimate goal in sports, a gold medal from the Olympics.
Since all the players on the roster are superstars in their own right, the process of reaching their full potential as a team fell again to Coach Mike Krzyzewski, already a gold medal coach from the 2008 Olympics. Developing basketball confidence in the team required building a positive atmosphere in the gym as well as the locker room. He knew he had great players, but he insisted on respect for each other, and strengthened their mental toughness as a group, not just an individual.
Making his first Olympic appearance, Tyson Chandler filled the role as the only true center on the team. The star from the Dallas Mavericks understands the ability of one’s mindset to either bring success or failure. He states, “I just want to go as far as I can take myself. No limits.” Keeping your mental focus on positive aspects of the game allows your physical abilities to perform at their utmost potential, without being limited by negative energy wasted on worry or fears of failure. Basketball psychology allows for consistent focus on positive abilities, eliminating any negative fear or emotional response. The game of basketball is one of constant momentum changes, and the mentally tough athlete withstands these changes, continuing with their game plan.
The other starter in his first Olympics was Oklahoma Thunder small forward Kevin Durant. Known for his tremendous work ethic both in the gym and developing his mental game, Durant takes nothing for granted when he says, “I know that the hard work got me here. And the day I stop working hard, this can all go away.” Coming off a tremendous year carrying his team to the NBA playoffs wasn’t enough for Durant. His team high 30 points in the Olympic final with Spain provided the highlight for his 2012 season.
A repeat gold medalist from the 2008 team, Chris Paul again provided a commanding presence for the team. The leadership he provided as being a former Olympian proved very valuable in the earlier rounds of play. Paul is also known for putting forth the extra time and effort required to reach the pinnacle of the game. He states, “I always have said that the most valuable thing I have isn’t money, it is my time.” Growing into a player with basketball confidence requires the knowledge that you deserve success. Your mental strength improves when you know there is nothing more you could do to improve your physical or mental game.
One of the most dominating players in the game today, Kobe Bryant also returned from the 2008 Championship team. The Laker’s guard played incredibly throughout the games, but also maintained a positive demeanor off the court. Often seen attending other sporting events such as Michael Phelps last victory, Bryant was determined to soak in the experience and enjoy the fruits of his years of hard work. Known for ability to pull off the impossible plays, Bryant is the epitome of mental toughness. He comprehends the power of psychology in basketball and uses it to his full advantage.
The last starter on the team just came off an MVP season in the NBA. LeBron James played incredibly, providing leadership as well as suffocating defense. Coach Krzyzewski sang his praises the best, “We can rave about his physical talents, but they’re matched, they’re definitely matched, by his leadership qualities and his brilliance. He was our leader. He’s the best player on this planet. And I think he can even get better, as he accomplishes more.”
Surrounded by high expectations and international fame, the players on the USA 2012 team didn’t disappoint with their spectacular play and teamwork. Their gold medals and smiles shine brightly of a job well done.
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