The athlete by Exavier

The athlete by Exavier - July 2025 Scholarship Essay

If I could give one piece of advice to my past self—the young, passionate basketball player who lived and breathed the game—it would be this: “Work just as hard off the court as you do on it.” At that time, I poured everything into my game—hours of practice, pickup games, early mornings, late nights. I chased greatness with a fierce determination, and my love for basketball never wavered. But what I didn’t fully understand back then was that the game isn’t just about athletic ability—it’s also about mindset, academics, networking, and self-discipline beyond the hardwood.

I would tell my younger self to focus more on building strong study habits, managing time wisely, and preparing mentally for challenges—not just in sports, but in life. Coaches, scouts, and opportunities don’t only look at skill; they look at character, work ethic, and how well you handle adversity. If I had valued those things as much as my jump shot or ball-handling, I would’ve been even more prepared for the doors basketball could open.

I’d also remind myself not to take any moment for granted. Injuries happen. Life happens. And no matter how talented you are, you’re only one play away from everything changing. So stay humble. Take care of your body. Surround yourself with people who uplift you and hold you accountable.

And finally, I’d say, “Don’t let doubt creep in.” There were times when I second-guessed myself or let setbacks shake my confidence. But looking back, I see now that every loss, every missed shot, every criticism was just a part of the journey meant to make me stronger.

Basketball was more than a sport—it was a teacher. It taught me about hard work, leadership, and resilience. If I had understood earlier how those lessons apply beyond the court, I would’ve been even more equipped for everything life would throw my way. But now, with that knowledge, I’m better than ever.