9 Ways NBA Players Can Stay Calm Before The Big Day This Year
9 Ways NBA Players Can Stay Calm Before The Big Day This Year
By Edcel Panganiban May 21, 2025 11:20
The day before a big game in the NBA can be filled with excitement, anticipation, and pressure. For players, staying calm and focused during this time is just as important as their physical preparation. Whether it’s the playoffs, a highly anticipated matchup, or a career-defining moment, athletes have developed various strategies to keep their minds steady and spirits balanced. In this post, we’ll explore nine ways NBA players can stay calm before the big day, offering a glimpse into the routines and rituals that help them face the spotlight with confidence and composure.
Here's How NBA Players Can Stay Calm Before The Big Day This Year
Practicing deep breathing exercises
Before a big game, many NBA players turn to deep breathing exercises as a simple yet effective way to stay calm. Taking slow, deliberate breaths helps them center their focus and create a sense of control amid the excitement.
This practice can be done anywhere, whether alone in the locker room or quietly off the court, providing a moment to pause and reset their mindset. Deep breathing becomes a reliable tool for players to steady their nerves and prepare mentally for the challenge, keeping them grounded before tip-off.
Listening to calming music
Listening to calming music is a popular way NBA players prepare themselves before a big game. The right playlist can create a peaceful atmosphere, helping them tune out distractions and focus inward.
Music offers a familiar and comforting backdrop as players get ready, whether it’s soft instrumentals, smooth jazz, or mellow beats. Many athletes use this time to mentally visualize their performance while letting the music set the tone. It’s a simple ritual that helps them stay composed and ready to face the intensity of game day.
Visualizing successful plays
Visualizing successful plays is a technique many NBA players use to stay calm and focused before a big game. By mentally rehearsing key moves, shots, and strategies, they create a clear picture of how they want the game to unfold.
This mental preparation allows players to build confidence and maintain control as the pressure builds. Visualization helps them stay positive and centered, turning anticipation into a calm readiness that sets the stage for a strong performance once the game begins.
Engaging in light stretching or yoga
Playing light stretching or yoga is a common way NBA players keep calm before a big game. These gentle movements help ease tension and create a sense of flow in the body, allowing players to move with greater ease and focus.
Whether in a quiet room or out on the court, stretching and yoga offer a moment of calm and mindfulness amid the excitement. This practice prepares their muscles and helps clear their minds, setting a balanced tone as they get ready to step onto the court.
Spending time with family or close friends
Spending time with family or close friends is a valuable way for NBA players to stay calm before a big game. Being around loved ones offers comfort and normalcy that can help take their mind off the pressure of competition.
Whether it’s sharing a meal, having a casual conversation, or simply enjoying each other’s company, these moments create a supportive environment that helps players feel grounded. This connection provides a reassuring balance, reminding them of what matters most beyond the game.
Reading or watching something enjoyable
Reading a good book or watching something enjoyable is a favorite way for NBA players to unwind and stay calm before a big game. Diving into a story or a favorite show lets them take a mental break from the intensity of preparation.
It’s a chance to relax, laugh, or get lost in a different world. This simple distraction helps shift their focus away from the upcoming pressure and keeps their minds balanced, making it easier to face game day with a clear head.
Journaling thoughts and goals
Journaling thoughts and goals is a practice some NBA players use to stay calm before a big game. Putting their ideas and intentions down on paper helps them organize their focus and clarify their goals.
Writing can serve as a way to process emotions and set a positive mindset, turning scattered thoughts into a clear plan. This quiet moment of reflection allows players to center themselves and approach the game with purpose and confidence.
Having their favorite meal
Enjoying their favorite meal before a big game is a simple way for NBA players to stay calm and feel grounded. Whether it’s a dish that reminds them of home or something they love, sharing that moment can bring comfort and normalcy amid the pre-game excitement.
Some players pair this ritual with other routines, like taking CBD Capsules to enhance their relaxation process. This combination helps create a familiar and calming atmosphere, allowing them to easily focus on what lies ahead.
Limiting screen time and social media use
Limiting screen time and social media use is a strategy many NBA players rely on to stay calm before a big game. Stepping away from the constant flow of notifications and online chatter helps them avoid distractions and unnecessary stress.
By creating space from the digital world, players can focus more on their preparation and mindset rather than outside opinions or breaking news. This intentional break allows them to maintain clarity and calm as they gear up for the intensity of game day.
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