Mind Work: Intellect in Motion

By Bryan Ryan

Eric Bledsoe is a good player, and he might become a star. Just look at his game against the Celtics Sunday night, starting in place of the injured Chris Paul: 23 points on 9 of 15 shooting, 10 assists, 7 rebounds, and only 3 turnovers. However, it’s not enough to be fantastic in the NBA.

To win, and win consistently, players cannot be athletic freaks or scoring machines alone. These talents yield good players, not all-stars, not legends. Greatness requires careful study of the game and the ability to apply that knowledge on the hardwood with split-second notice.

Rajon Rondo did not do this because he got lucky, because of his oversized hands, or because of his elite speed. Rondo has studied the game and knows how to process it in real-time, breaking down the variables and applying his “homework” on the court. Rajon Rondo’s intellect in motion is nothing short of amazing and astounding.

Related:
• The Basketball Project