I played when I played, and played, I think, against the greatest players in the greatest time in the history of basketball.
Oscar RobertsonRead
Sports do not build character. They reveal it.
Interpretation
Sports expose a person's true character rather than shaping it.
This quote by Heywood Broun emphasizes that while sports are often viewed as a means to develop character, it is ultimately the true nature of individuals that is revealed through competition and teamwork. In challenging scenarios like sports, one's core traits—such as integrity, resilience, and sportsmanship—come to light, illustrating who they genuinely are under pressure.
In practice
Mentioning this quote during a motivational speech about teamwork.
I played when I played, and played, I think, against the greatest players in the greatest time in the history of basketball.
What's important is to get into the pitcher's head: to know what he's made of.
After almost 30 years of playing this sport, I've learned something. I've learned that, no matter what happens, or happened... or where you are, or where you've been... at the end of the day: tennis is tennis. It's always, always tennis. And there's nothing better.
I'm always amazed when a pitcher becomes angry at a hitter for hitting a home run off him. When I strike out, I don't get angry at the pitcher, I get angry at myself. I would think that if a pitcher threw up a home run ball, he should be angry at himself.
I think that everyone should be able to dribble. Everyone should be able to pass. Otherwise, why are you out there?
Being a decathlete is like having ten girlfriends. You have to love them all, and you can't afford losing one.
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