Basketball Quote by Patrick Ewing
“I never knew what basketball was. I started playing on the playground. People used to laugh at me and joke at me because I was so tall and I didn't know the game and couldn't play it.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: ESPN, 1995
Self‑doubt can be overcome by practice and perseverance despite ridicule.
In simple terms: Practice beats doubt.
Key Takeaway
Keep practicing despite criticism.
Themes
sports
confidence
perseverance
growth
Mood
determined
hopeful
Type
motivational
inspirational
When to use this quote
- school sports
- learning a new skill
- overcoming bullying
Key Concepts
psychology of learning
self‑efficacy
Questions to Reflect On
- What motivates you to keep trying?
- How can mentors help?
A Different Perspective
Self‑doubt may persist without supportive feedback.
![“I failed, I think, seven [or] eight times before I finally got my first [championship]. It was just, you know, just about me growing up. Now that I'm an old, old veteran-age 29-I do things a lot differently. I don't go to the gentlemen's clubs anymore. I had to slow that down.” quote by Shaquille O'Neal](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/08f/shaquille-o-neal-659_age_i-failed-i-think-seven-or-eight-times-be_2731.jpg)
