I played basketball in Iowa over 60 years ago with its unique girls’ basketball history tied to half-court play and a legendary 6-on-6 girls’ basketball tradition. A person was either a shooting forward (me!) or a defensive guard. Although rebounding might have been a statistic that was kept, the focus was on points scored. I do not recall ever hearing anything about “assists.”
I have fond memories of my basketball competition. I regret, however, that the acknowledgement of teamwork was not conspicuous by measures of contributions other than points. My coaches talked about the value of teamwork, and it was understood, but little tangible evidence existed as there is today when “assists” are part of the trilogy of points, rebounds, assists, and occasionally steals.
I admire players like Caitlin Clark who make her teammates better because she provides assists to them. She can score points but also recognizes that often others are in a better position. Providing the perfect pass that sets someone else to score results in great satisfaction. It can extend beyond the immediate statistics as well.
Teamwork is an essential part of success in both personal and professional life. When people work together, they bring different skills to the table. Research shows that kids who participate in team sports can be better prepared for the work world. By combining strengths, a team can often accomplish more than any individual could alone.
Good teamwork with a mindset of “assists” also builds trust and a sense of shared responsibility. Ultimately, teamwork is not always about what one person can achieve. Although I hold the all-time scoring record for my high school, I know I had many assists that were seldom noted. Living as a teenager or an adult is about accomplishing goals together like winning a game or feeling supported in one’s daily life and acknowledging those needed assists.
Assists emphasize the notion of interdependence. I am fortunate to live in a community that recognizes interdependence. We work together and support one another. In our environment, everyone can contribute to help others succeed whether it is in cancer treatments or cutting wood for an elderly neighbor. No one keeps score.
Scoring points is laudable but sharing in the success of those points is something I wish I had had a mindset for when I was a young basketball player. I am glad I can acknowledge its importance in my life today.
Perfect and you bettcha!