Sports Anxiety IS Real
One very common problem athletes deal with is sports anxiety.
I have experienced these feelings growing up and have always been very impressed with professional players and how they go out in front of thousands and perform at the highest level. When you think about Ben Simmons, everyone’s first thought is his lack of shooting threes. Obviously, he was very comfortable doing so previously in his career as well as a practice or open gyms, so it is a valid concern for fans to have. Although, most people don’t understand what goes on in the players’ heads.
Before I talk about how Ben is recovering and working on this issue, though, I want to talk about Brandon Brooks of the Philadelphia Eagles.
Brooks is an amazing example to use because not only is he an amazing athlete, but he is also a great teammate and person all around. He recently came public about his own anxiety and how he felt uneasy before every game. He would throw up right before game time and then would come out of the tunnel and play his heart out. The reason I bring that up is that not one person could ever suspect a monster like Brandon Brooks having anxiety issues to that extent. Sports anxiety is a real thing and can affect even the best athletes out there.
To aim back at Ben Simmons, it is very possible that he suffers from the same type of thing.
I am not saying he throws up before every game, but I do think he has a lot in his head when it comes to basketball.
Us fans have watched Ben evolve each part of his game every single year, excluding his three-point shot, which has become frustrating to watch. He gets criticism from people all over the league, whether it’s other fans or even other players. This not only affects his attitude towards the game, but it also affects his future decision to become a shooter. He recently saw a sports psychologist to work on this and see why he is very conservative with his three-point shot. This was a great step for him because he can learn to not let the public opinion affect him and to play the way he has always played.
He recently said he would rather become a 40% shooter from three than a 30% shooter, which shows he is truly working on that part of his game.
Brett Brown suggested an idea of moving Ben to the bench because of his lack of shooting, but this decision just doesn’t seem right.
According to ESPN, Ben believes that shooting threes is not the most efficient for his team. Ben’s older brother, Sean, stated that Ben always wants to be efficient and likes to avoid making the wrong moves. It is important for Ben to know that this city stands behind him and will support him in any way through this transition. He needs to try new things and start expanding his game.
Ben recently said, “I know it’s going to come. It’s a matter of being comfortable doing it.”
Clearly, he knows what needs to change and this upcoming season should show a whole new Ben Simmons.
Featured Image: Mitchell Leff/Getty Images
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