I was always the kid dribbling the ball on the sidelines, hoping someone would pick me. I'd go with my older brother to the gym or park, and when I went out there, I'd pass the ball so I could get picked again.
John StocktonRead
I never thought I'd make it in the NBA, so everything else is gravy.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The speaker achieved more than they ever expected, and anything beyond that is a bonus.
John Stockton reflects on his journey to the NBA, expressing surprise and gratitude for his accomplishments. By stating that everything else is 'gravy', he highlights a mindset that values unexpected success and cherishes the additional rewards that come after achieving a goal that once seemed out of reach.
Themes
SuccessGratitudeAchievementUnexpectedMindset
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech to young athletes, this quote can emphasize the importance of hard work and enjoying one's journey.
More from John Stockton
All quotes βYou don't get this opportunity many times in life to compete against the best in the world every night. I certainly didn't expect to have 10 or 11 years of chances at it, so I don't want to take that for granted.
John StocktonRead
You can't afford to hop around and act like a kid when you have to get back on defense and worry about the other parts of the game. But at the end, when the buzzer sounds, you have the luxury of hopping around and looking foolish for a while.
John StocktonRead
Why was I able to be able to pass? What did I do right that allowed me to make a pass - any given pass? There's balance; there's vision.
John StocktonRead
I don't think about the record, because winning games has to be our focus, and if we lost focus thinking about that record, I would really regret it. How will I feel later on? People tell me it will mean a lot after I retire, for the kids and me. But to me, it's just a stat. It's something people enjoy talking about. Me? I just enjoy playing.
John StocktonRead
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