Here to save the game
As we look back on all the games, tournaments and events that took place during this past Summer we have come to realize that Streetball has definitely come along way. Local players are gaining global recognition for doing something that they love. However, what is great for a select few does not translate well to those trying to mimic the success of their predecessors. From our travels and conversations with people from all over the country we have seen a lot of copycats and outright comedy that really doesn’t have any place in playground basketball.
There is a common misconception that as a playground player that you must be able to do tricks and slick moves to be a “legend” or acquire a name for yourself. This has only become partially true by way of over commercialization of the sport via mix tapes videos/tours from various organizations. What many don’t realize is that those who have “made it”, have worked, struggled on their craft for years to get where they are. The reason why majority of them are in their position is because they learned to play the game correctly, before adding the flash/tricks to repertoire.
Trying to use tricks to define yourself is your choice. In the long run putting flash before fundamentals will only weaken your game and not strengthen it. As an organization, Macleem Sports Wear & The Hooptainers, are here to educate and, if need be, make an example of those so called streetballers who think we’re incorrect. By winning basketball games and entertaining people in the process. Our objective is to show the world that the true essence of streetball is just playing the game to the best of your ability.
Since the Hooptainers formed their current team in 2004, they haven’t lost a game. When you see us play you’ll notice a difference between a real team and just a group of guys running around on a court. Some athletes play for the crowd and not for the final score, so getting the crowd to cheer off a nice move would be a victory for them but by the end of the game your team lost by 20.
Let this be an open call to those who disagree with us. If you would like to show us that tricks and circus moves are a mandatory part of the game then challenge us to a game in your country or city; whether it is the playground or arena. Like our motto says- Real Game. Real Gear. We save all those tricks and “highlight moves” for those who want to play for the moment and not the entire game.
Lessons and classes will begin now.
Comment (1)
Haneef,
I love it.
It’s something that breaks my heart when I see it at any level, even more so the little ones trying stuff that just has no point to the game or one’s game.
“What many don’t realize is that those who have “made it”, have worked, struggled on their craft for years to get where they are. The reason why majority of them are in their position is because they learned to play the game correctly, before adding the flash/tricks to repertoire”
That sums it up perfectly. I’m a massive hustle player that still busts my arse every time I’m on the court, be it game day or training with or with out my team/s. I’ll be the first to tell you, I don’t have super flashy dribbling moves but I’ll leave my defender behind with true fundamentals. I spend hours and hours and hours perfecting my shot, I tell you I’ll shot on any one any time any where it’s going in.
And to see these kids and even older dudes not working on the basics and getting smashed daily, but they pull off maybe one move. They think they are the best $%^& please come on.
Love it, love Macleem/hooptianers keep on keeping real.
Your Aussie boy
Steve