Intense practices were consistent throughout the summer. The team was prepared for the championship. Victorious two years ago, our basketball coach was experienced, and he knew what actions to take.

"You will be playing in the second half," said the coach. I was fine about playing in the second half because if I played in the first half, nerves would take over my body causing me to miss myriad number of shots.

The clock told us the game was to commence shortly. During warm ups, the team struggled to get focused on the game, which caused shots taken by players to ricochet off the backboard. Worried about losing the championship, I felt nervous and missed every shot. Our coach tried getting us concentrated on the game. After he said his little speech, the starting players marched onto the court. The centers from both teams came to the middle...