94x50: Discipleship on the CourtНамуна

Teamwork

Basketball teaches us the value of teamwork—working together toward a common goal, supporting one another, and celebrating each other's successes. In a generation immersed in social media and self-gratification, where AAU basketball competition and highlights consume us, many athletes focus on personal glory, aspiring to become the next superstar. However, in the pursuit of excellence, we must not overlook the importance of teamwork and a life focused beyond oneself.

Although the NBA boasts many superstars, no team can win a championship with just one player; it requires a cohesive team effort. Even Michael Jordan, widely regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time, relied on key teammates like Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman to lead the Chicago Bulls to six NBA championships. While debates on who is the G.O.A.T. (Greatest of All Time) persist, the 1995-1996 Bulls are still celebrated as one of the greatest teams in NBA history.

In our journey of discipleship, we are not meant to walk alone. Ecclesiastes 4:9 says, “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor.“ Winning championships is a great and wonderful experience at any level, but how many of us are helping our teammates and those we encounter through the game win an eternal prize? The same scripture continues in verses 10-12, “If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”

As Christian athletes, we know we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us, we write it on our shoes and wear it on our wristbands, but we need each other to go the distance. Iron sharpens iron. Consider how you can strengthen your spiritual community by offering support and encouragement to fellow believers, mirroring the teamwork seen on the basketball court.

Reflection:

• Are there areas in your life where you are trying to go at it alone? How can you invite others to walk alongside you in faith and purpose?
• Think of a time when someone supported you during a difficult moment. How can you be that support for someone else?
• Are you focusing more on personal success or on helping your "team" win—both spiritually and in life?