Basketball is Unforgiving

Basketball is Unforgiving.

On the court, you are stripped naked in front of everybody. People can see right through you.

Every movement by every player is observed, magnified, assessed by teammates, opponents, coaches, spectators. Second by second.
Did you see the court clearly before you made that pass?
What were you thinking when you took that bad shot?
How could you miss that layup?
Why did you not take that wide open shot?
Were you scared?

Everyone's goal is to win the game. If you are the weakest defender, your opponent attacks you. If you turn over the ball once, your teammates don't let you touch the ball. If you make the same mistake again, your coach puts you on the bench.

Why? In a game with time limit, a team has only a number of possessions, and cannot afford to lose any. Everyone is making decisions to maximize the chance of winning.
Nothing personal. Very unforgiving. You are lucky to have a second chance. Don't even hope for a third.

What should I do if that happens? You may ask.

Redeem yourself.
If you miss that layup, run back and hustle on defense.
If it is not your shooting night, drive to the rim and pass to open teammate.
Jump higher and rebound that missed shot.
Contribute in other ways.
Prove that you should stay in the lineup and you will make the next layup.

Or redeem yourself in the next game. Go practice in the gym, and improve your skills.
Basketball is a game with clearly written rules. It is simpler than most things in life.

You deserve a second chance. Only if you earn it.