A Force of Mentality: Same Game, No Crowds, Future Concerns

Hey everyone! A new force of mentality today. I want to talk about how basketball is interesting to watch with no crowds or fans lately. Not necessarily the "excitement" factor, but more about the game as a whole. It sounds bland or nothing of importance, but there are unique situations to think about. Better yet, I believe it opens a lane for exposure as well. Both good and bad. The reason I say this is because if there is one thing I know about playing ball, it's the influence of your environment and culture. Let's digest that a bit so you can see the different perspectives and observations.

Now, during Covid-19 and for all levels of play, there are very minimal amount of people to even physically watch a game. It depends on rules and regulations. Regardless, it is not the same, no matter how you look at it. It is not the same overall excitement, suspense, fear, etc. However, there are new variables to the table that I believe are worth mentioning. First, I'd like to say that by having no crowds, there are no outer influences or distractions. Most ball players are taught to ignore what fans are saying and just play. But, sometimes there is an influence in the fan factor that goes unseen. Instead of the cheering factor, there is the revenge and adrenaline bit we feel inside ourselves.

We love to see people hate or express dislike towards athletes in games. It's like "Yes, tell me I can't play ball or can't defend the best player". I want to prove you wrong. It is this side of competitive nature that is fizzled out a tiny bit due to no crowds. All it takes is those little set of words that trigger a player. Seeing he/she go off with their talents. Sometimes, it might not even be the most talented players, but the underrated ones. The ones that aren't talked about or simply just quiet.

But, we have also seen the opposite too. Not with crowds, but players amongst each other. Confronting demons or simply just immersive small beefs. Nobody is here to say anything different. No super fans to back you. It is just you and me. "Let's go at it" type mentality. Let's confront our issues directly on court. As mentioned above, I said that there is room for this lane of exposure. Sometimes, I believe that relates to fear due to outer influences and media. Those outer influences also influence the flow of the game, including the reffing too. So, when there is no crowds, it limits those fears. In fact, it embraces confidence and stronger team chemistry. If nobody is physically present, then you feel there is no urgency to impress anyone. No noise. However, there is the urgency to play hard for yourself, your team, and love for the game.

I believe that this might be a healthier, controlled environment of playing too. I noticed there isn't as much crazy conflicting on court. Just not as aggressive if crowds were present. Less possibilities for violence. We did see some craziness this past summer, but that was early days of the bubble and players had to get used to that. However, now that we know and are aware, the games are still good and competitive. But, the nature of it is very much calmer without fans. At least in terms of regular season. Playoffs are a different story and mentality.

Although this looks like a healthier environment on court, I also believe it can be a harder lifestyle too because of quarantine and isolation. Not seeing or spending physical time with family, friends, lovers, or kids. That becomes very draining. Just basketball, covid testing, and right back into your home. Repeating cycles could lead to some form of insanity or depression. Although no crowds brings great opportunities in different ways, I also wonder if this is overall good for the well-being of sports competition as a whole. 

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