How Can I Avoid Playing Down to an Opponent's Level?

Basketball Player:

My name is Chris. I play basketball and I am an outstanding player. When we play teams that are very good, our team plays well. However, when we play teams that are not as good as us, we don’t play well and I don't seem to try that hard. How can I stop playing down to the level of our opponents?

Dr. Cohn’s Answer:

Good question Chris. This is part attitude, part team chemistry problem. I am sure many of you have experienced the same problem when you play an opponent that you are supposed to or are expected to beat. Let face it, it’s easy to get up for the big games when you are playing a tough opponent—the motivation is high to beat a rival or come away with an upset. So playing to the level of your opponent in this case is positive and helpful.

The problem is when you play to down to the level of an opponent who is not as strong as you are or your team is. This is when your team gets upset by a team they should have beat. What can you do to stay on top of your game when you are playing a weaker opponent?

First, never take winning for granted. If you are too confident or overconfident that you or your team will win the game, this can backfire. This attitude leads to lackluster preparation and a sloppy game plan. You need to prepare for each and every game or match like you would if it was a championship game.

Second, get excited about playing the other team. The lack of motivation is usually caused by a lack of excitement or overconfidence. You have to find a way to get pumped about play your opponent who you think will be easy to beat. Set a goal for yourself to have a career scoring day for yourself or the team, for example. You have to challenge yourself beyond winning the game.

Third, the team chemistry has to be there for the team to work together and perform well. If some of the members of the team don’t care about playing the “easy” game, that will disrupt the team cohesion and unity. The members of the team have to unite and get focused for a game in which anything could happen. Create team goals that will help you win and win big like you expect to.

Fourth, focus is an important element in peak performance. If you or the team is not focused on execution and the game plan, then you might as well not show up for the game. The coach has to do a good job of laying out what you should focus on in the game. Then it’s your job to stick to the task-relevant cues that he or she set forth. During the game, if you find your mind wandering during play, recognize this and get refocused on execution.

Don’t let the level of your opponents change your motivation, preparation, or focus to play your best. No one can coast through the game and expect to win. Get excited to play, focus on the game plan, and challenge yourself to have a great game!

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