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I thought I would make it (to the NBA). I believed that I…

“I thought I would make it (to the NBA). I believed that I would make it. But I had a Plan B. I was going to get my Master's degree at Tulane University had it not worked out. I think the pressure of making it wasn't on me as great as some other players that had no other options. I was going to do…” quote by Avery Johnson
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“I thought I would make it (to the NBA). I believed that I would make it. But I had a Plan B. I was going to get my Master's degree at Tulane University had it not worked out. I think the pressure of making it wasn't on me as great as some other players that had no other options. I was going to do something special in life and I wanted to play in the NBA. I had a backup plan but I went full speed ahead with my Plan A.”

Avery Johnson

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Acknowledge ambition while maintaining a pragmatic backup, reducing anxiety and preserving drive.

In simple terms: Balancing dreams with realistic alternatives.

Key Takeaway

Plan B eases pressure on Plan A.

Themes

resilience goal-setting risk management mindset motivation

Mood

determined hopeful pragmatic

Type

motivational reflective

When to use this quote

  • athlete facing career uncertainty
  • student planning graduate studies
  • professional considering career pivot
  • entrepreneur launching startup
  • artist balancing creative and financial goals

Key Concepts

dual pathways self-efficacy

Practical Applications

  • career counseling
  • personal development workshops

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does having a contingency plan affect performance?
  • What risks arise from over‑relying on a backup?
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