The Mental and Physical Aspect of the Game: Erric Adams Story

written by Octavio Parral | @octavio_parral

Erric Adams of KIPP Nashville Collegiate High School, Photo Cred: Jeremy Pope

Just like any sport, Basketball requires two components to function properly in order for success to occur. There is the physical aspect and the mental aspect. Point guard Erric Adams understands the importance of both as he uses everyday training methods to increase his performance.

Physical

Standing at a whopping height 5’9”, Erric must be able to use his body in unique positions in order to make up for the lack of height. Training includes knowing how to contort the body in certain positions to attack the basket, shooting from all spaces and ranges, and building conditioning and strength.

Being on the shorter side of the basketball world definitely makes the life more challenging. However, with a solid work ethic, Erric has proven that his height is what makes him the basketball player he is. Every day is a physical journey and Erric will continue to work out in the gym and weight room to become the best physical player he can be.

If there is anyone who can relate, that’s Coach Pope of Next Level Skills. At a short height himself, Pope had to use his athleticism to get him over the hurdle of playing giants at the college level. Now, he is training Erric in a similar fashion as he did at Goshen College.

“The biggest improvement has come from Erric. It’s night and day,” Coach Pope says. Later he would go on to say that he has a personal connection with Erric’s training.

Erric trains his body everyday to compete at a high level, Photo Cred: Jeremy Pope

Mental

There is a saying that the game is 20% physical and 80% mental. The thought process controls the steps, passes, cuts, trash talk, and whatever you can think of when you play ball. Erric trains his mind to understand how to play. When is the correct pass? Cut? Shot? Attack? Play? All these require a great amount of studying from Erric and Coach Pope.

The greats of the game, Lebron for example, are built like computers knowing how to get the team functioning through precise actions. Coach Pope works with his point guard on these precise actions through workout sessions.

And of course, don’t forget the confidence piece that allows Erric to compete at a high level. High confidence stems from hard work ethic, training, belief, and his faith in his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He wants to be the best and think like the best. Night and day, Erric, with the help from some music, prepares himself to play and succeed on the court. He also heavily relies on his favorite scripture, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" Philippians 4:13. Look at some of his highlights and pay attention to his decisions on the court. 

Erric's dream is to play at the collegiate level. He will continue to focus on his physical and mental game and improve every day. If you want to hear more from Erric or Coach Pope, contact Next Level Skills.

- Next Level Skills