Team USA

When I saw this photo, I immediately had a flashback to the days when I played organized basketball. I remember the days when the entire team would be casually dressed ready to hoop. Always stay ready. I miss those days. I definitely miss playing competitive basketball and honing my craft. What I also miss is hanging out with my teammates / friends.

I miss the days when we talked nonsense in the bus ride back from away games. When we walked to our local burger joint. When we hooped outdoors at the park. When we played video games for countless hours. When we stayed up all night betting $10 each in poker (massive prize pool). When we dueled in Yu-Gi-Oh. When we had all the time in the world to hang out and be kids without the burden of life.

All the time spent together built a sense of brotherhood. We were there for each other during the highs and lows of life on and off the court. From winning close games to running bleachers in the hot sun. From graduating high school to navigating heartbreak. I’m so grateful for all the friendships and memories that came from being on a basketball team.

When I watched team USA on and off the court during the Paris 2024 Olympics, I had all of these nostalgic thoughts and emotions rushing my system. It felt good to reminisce on the good old days. At the same time, it reminded me of what was and still is important to me: success and camaraderie.

Team USA won gold. They achieved success at the highest level on a global stage. The Avengers assembled consisted of individual stars. These stars are used to leading their respective NBA teams and playing bigger roles to win games. However, they checked their egos and took smaller roles for the betterment of the team. Making the necessary sacrifices to accomplish a common goal greater than themselves.

The journey reaching the destination is just as sweet and fulfilling. Bonding through the opening ceremony, practices, hard fought victories, watching other Olympians, long flights, dinners, exploring new places and everything in between. The grind. The casual hangouts. All of it. Every single Olympic experience to be cherished as this event occurs only once every 4 years. Each memory fortifying lifelong bonds.

I can’t wait to watch and live vicariously through the sports documentary if and when it comes out. The Avengers played the perfect Endgame.

My love for sports runs deep. Basketball is my greatest metaphor for life.