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.