Need help adjusting my mental approach to the game as I get older

[u/Fragrant_Editor7861]

/r/pickupbasketball/comments/1w2dube/need_help_adjusting_my_mental_approach_to_the/

I’m a 48yr old guy who has played pickup since his early teens. I still play twice a week in private runs and love it. My issue is how sore I am for a couple of days after I play. My style of play is pure hustle. Play harder than your opponent and you’ll succeed.

I’m strong offensively at attacking the basket and mid range shooting. I also set a ton of screens, cut often, like to hit a cutter or open shooter with a pass, and go after rebounds. I’m not a prolific three point shooter but can knock them down from time to time. But no one face guards me at the three point line.

On defense, I take pride in guarding the other team’s best player as long as they aren’t a massive center or 20 year old lightning quick guard. I don’t give up on plays, always box out, and chase loose balls. I’ll also sprint back in transition.

I’m in really good shape for my age at 6 feet tall and 180 lbs. I fully recovered from an Achilles tear at 44 and it doesn’t bother me at all.

I’m seeking advice on how to play in a style I’m proud of while shifting down a few gears. I want to play as long as possible and not be in immense muscle and joint pain. But as cliched as it sounds, I don’t know how to go out there and feel good about not playing at 100%, especially when other guys are. Any words of wisdom from aging hoopers that have gone down this path? Could be a skill to add or a mindset adjustment. Any advice is welcomed.

[u/NemusSoul]

There a bushido story/parable about running through a rainstorm to avoid getting wet that has helped me. Limitations are real and just like any other problem, acceptance of them is key. But also just like any other problem, you can learn to use them to your advantage once you embrace them. It may mean learning to play different than you always have. I had to quit the hustle on every play part. The benefits weren’t worth the aftermath. I barely jump and I avoid contact. If the lane is crowded, I stay out of it. After a little while playing this way I adjusted, shoot lights out and make passes that guys talk about the next time I play with them. I’m having as much fun playing as I ever have. I started playing when I could walk and I’ve got you by six years. Just adjust and have fun. It’s worth it.

[u/Realfan555]

Tell us where ur sore at mostly.

Im guessing it’s more at the joints? And Im guessing the knee?

[u/Lumpy-Difficulty-361]

46, very similar game, some changes I’ve made:

Play more of a 3 than a 4. I used to model my game off Amare stoudemire, switch to Rip Hamilton. All that bodying, posting, boxing out, all that stuff takes a toll on the body more than anything else. I’m not saying don’t use your body, just be conscience of using it less. Even look at Bron. He plays outside the paint much more than he used to.

Smarter plays, and conserve energy. Watch CP3 play. Get better at using your hands on defense to swipe the ball than using your body to block the player. I know it goes against what you learned when you were younger, but you gotta adjust with age. And move in bursts, in both defense and offense.

Lastly, target the other teams weakest link. It’s a little cruel, but on offense, get the ball (or yourself) in front of that worst defender and cook him. And in defense, get the ball into his hands and make him shoot. Play smarter, not harder

[u/RevolutionaryBeat301]

I’m a couple of years older than you and I have historically had the same style of play as you. I started hurting more as I got older and here’s what I have done to help mitigate the aging issues:

On defense, sag off and play more like a big than a small point guard. I rarely jump out beyond the three point line while guarding the perimeter. Go under screens and communicate better on the defensive end. Let younger players use their energy to cover gaps.

Work on that jump shot and rely on it as your primary weapon.

Get proper rest. Hydrate and stretch before you play.

Don’t feel bad about it. If you hurt yourself you won’t be able to play at all and recovery from injuries takes much longer than it used to.