Athlete Studio’s Post

The next day after I lost my second round US Open match to Michael Chang, I found myself in a Manhattan hotel suite, sitting across from a gentleman by the name of Jeff Schwartz. Jeff Schwartz was Pete Sampras’ agent and he was working for IMG at the time. This was amazing for me because I had graduated from Stanford a year before and didn’t have an agent. And because I played so well against Chang, IMG and Jeff Schwartz saw that I had a future in pro tennis. They thought I could be top 50 in the world. But as my pro tennis career was taking off like a rocket ship, I was met with extreme adversity that would change the course of my life. Three months after that match with Michael Chang and signing with IMG, in an off-season training session, I was playing basketball in Denver, Colorado. I came down for a rebound and felt a sharp pain in the front of my ankle. It was misdiagnosed and it took about eight months before I finally had ankle surgery to remove a bone spur. Six months after that, I felt a click in the back of my knee in my first pro tournament back at the Miami Open. I had knee surgery - two surgeries before the age of 25. My body was falling apart. I was down and out! I was worried! I was anxious! Was my pro career going to be over? And at that moment, I made a decision to go all-in that I was going to learn everything I could about high performance! And that speaks to the power of looking inward by working on your physical, emotional, and mental state! This journey into high performance to improve my body, to upgrade it, to be able to prevent injuries in the future, to change my thoughts, to be able to regulate my emotions, learning all of these things in my 20s because of the setbacks and injuries changed my life! It transformed my life and allowed me to do incredible things in my career! So for you, I want you to think about how you can improve and optimize your performance and health and go on that quest to learn how you can improve yourself! #tennis #adversity #overcomingfear #USOpen #highperformance

LEAP DAY is the perfect day to take a leap of faith, so I’m jumping in! It’s LAUNCH DAY for my new product, the BACK HAT™. www.originalbackhat.com https://lnkd.in/gz7twdfx While I’ve been creating and launching successful products for Fortune 500 companies for many years, I started a passion project to launch my own. Two years in the making, several product iterations later, a patent-pending and now it’s go time! The BACK HAT is a baseball cap that’s been re-engineered to be worn backwards - and look GREAT. Why does the market need another baseball cap? The unspoken code that wearing your baseball cap backwards tells the world you’re cool and confident, but it never quite looks or feels as cool as you’d hoped. Whether it’s a floppy dad hat that sits weirdly on your head or a snapback that leaves a buckle dent in your forehead, the functionality and style drawbacks aren’t boosting your hat game the way you would have hoped. Enter the BACK HAT. While you’ll recognize it as a baseball cap, it’s an all-new breed that’s been re-engineered to solve the problems of traditional caps worn backwards. In fact, it’s so revolutionary it’s got a patent pending. The BACK HAT was designed to look and feel great with the brim in the back. Its patent-pending technology includes two flexible side panels that create a perfect fit without an adjustable buckle, and the reinforced structure ensures that the Back Hat maintains its shape. Proudly designed, developed, and manufactured in the USA of the highest quality materials, the BACK HAT can be custom designed with your logo in a wide variety of fabrics and colors. I’d like to thank many of you who have helped to turn this dream into reality: Valerie Granat and David Granat of Classic Caps, a 3rd-generation family-run business in Texas. Dan Minicucci for your amazing product photography Sabrina Oostburg, Samuel Pate, and Coach Fred - Leroy Frederick at Alcorn State University for your support on social channels Tariq Ahmad for your support and guidance in the NIL space Ruchir V. Patel for your expert legal advice Onyx W. D. Johnson for his management consulting prowess Chris Toledo for going the extra mile If I missed anyone, my sincerest apologies. I appreciate you all! Let’s up America’s hat game! Back Hat www.originalbackhat.com https://lnkd.in/gz7twdfx

Ready to rock the court and look fly doing it? NEPA NXT & Elite Apparel Store from Riverfront Sports has got the gear to make you the MVP of style on and off the court! Why hoop it up with NEPA NXT & Elite Basketball Gear? 1️⃣ Fresh Threads, Better Game: Our gear isn't just about looking good – it's about playing even better! From comfy jerseys to shorts that won't hold you back, we've got what you need to ball out like a champ. 2️⃣ Custom Swag: Want to rep your team in style? Customize your gear with your team's colors, logo, and even your lucky number! It's like having your own personal cheering section on your back. 3️⃣ Drip Too Hard: Who says you can't flex on the court? Our gear blends performance and style, so you can drop buckets and jaws at the same time. Get ready to turn heads with your killer crossover and your killer outfit. 4️⃣ Squad Goals: Your team isn't just a crew – it's family. Show some love for your hoops fam by rocking NEPA NXT & Elite gear. Whether you're practicing, playing, or just chilling, we've got the gear to keep your squad looking fresh. So what are you waiting for? Lace up those kicks, throw on your NEPA NXT & Elite gear, and let's hit the court in style! NEPA NXT: https://bit.ly/NEPANXT NEPA Elite: https://bit.ly/NEPAElite

September 1, 2023: MSU finally released it's non conference schedule and it has a few surprises. First, there is no true road game which is very unusual for Tom Izzo. He usually likes to challenge his team at least once in a hostile environment before the Big Ten season really gets under way. Second, the schedule is much more manageable this year without games sandwiched between crazy travel schedules. Unlike last year where MSU logged thousands of miles in the air and moved multiple time zones before playing at Notre Dame, this year doesn't look to have any of those difficulties. Finally, 1979 national champion opponent, the Indiana State Sycamores, visit the Breslin in their first matchup since the title game over 40 years ago. It will certainly be an interesting matchup and one that is sure to get a lot of media attention. As far a recruiting, MSU is hosting official visits for Jase Ricahrdson and Davion Hannah this weekend and unofficials for 2026 targets TJ Crumble and Steven Reynolds. Are you looking for Spartan gear? There’s only one place to go to get your MSU T-shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts — Nudge Printing. (https://lnkd.in/gkW3SZix ) Nudge is owned and operated by Gabe and Brittany, two MSU alums. The business is operated out of Michigan and screen prints super high quality products. They also have a large assortment of apparel for other schools as well as stickers for your wall, car, or computer. You can also buy our merchandise to sport around town where all the sales proceeds go to support the show. If you have a home in Michigan you know the importance of clearing water efficiently away from your home off the roof. Unfortunately, the outdoor beauty of Michigan means you have to deal with leaves and debris that pile up in your gutters. Sometimes, those gutters also can’t keep up with the rain or leave puddles by your foundation. If you live in the Grand Rapids area (Muskegon to Saugatuck to Rockford to Lowell) contact Kurt Stauffer at the Brothers that Just Do Gutters . (https://lnkd.in/gg6RKQN6 ). If you’re anywhere in the metro Detroit area the Brothers have you covered too! (https://lnkd.in/g2yGdG3u ). They are real professionals who will clean, repair, or replace your gutters and protect your home quickly and efficiently with friendly service. Mention Final Four to get 10% off your gutter work.

Refining footwork: the ultimate game-changer for a footballer's success! ⚽👟 Master the art of precise footwork, an essential element that separates the good from the great in soccer. Here's why continuous footwork practice is pivotal for every player's journey to the top: ✅ Enhanced Agility: Sharpening footwork hones agility, enabling players to swiftly maneuver through opponents and make lightning-quick directional changes on the field. ✅ Improved Ball Control: Precise footwork cultivates superior ball-handling skills, empowering players to maintain possession, dribble past defenders, and execute flawless passes. ✅ Enhanced Confidence: Mastery of footwork breeds confidence, instilling players with the self-assurance needed to take on challenges and make split-second decisions under pressure. ✅ Superior Technique: Regular footwork practice refines technique, enabling players to execute intricate moves with finesse, elevating their overall gameplay. Join me in this journey where footwork isn't just a skill—it's the cornerstone of soccer excellence! ⚽💫 #FootworkMatters #SoccerSkills #TrainingToWin 🏆

Design Tradeoffs in the Grind Basketball Shooting Machine Designing innovative sports training equipment requires a delicate balance between various competing priorities. On the Grind shooting machine, several key tradeoffs were considered to ensure the shooting machine delivers maximum value to athletes while maintaining practicality and convenience. Balancing Compactness and Functionality: One significant design decision was maintaining a compact stowed form factor. To achieve this, we utilized telescopic poles that extend beyond 12 feet when in use. This decision ensures the machine remains portable and easy to store, making it accessible for athletes who train in different locations. However, the tradeoff is the necessity for manual operation during setup and takedown. While this adds a step for the user, it significantly enhances the machine’s weight, portability, and usability in various settings. Simplified Assembly for Robustness and Affordability: Another crucial consideration was the manual setup and takedown process. By opting for a user-operated mechanism, we kept the device lightweight and eliminated the need for complex, heavy, or power-dependent systems. This approach not only simplifies the assembly but also maintains a robust design and competitive price point. It ensures that athletes receive a durable, high-quality product without incurring excessive costs. Optimizing for Performance and Portability: The telescopic poles and manual setup are not just compromises but strategic decisions to enhance the overall user experience. They ensure that the Grind Basketball shooting machine can be a reliable companion for athletes, whether they are training at home, in the gym, or on the go. By understanding and addressing the complexities of design tradeoffs, the partnership between Hatch Duo LLC and GRIND will continue to innovate and push the boundaries of what’s possible in sports training technology. https://lnkd.in/gj7BY7iP #DesignInnovation #ProductDesign #BasketballTraining #GrindBasketball #EngineeringExcellence #SportsTech #AthletePerformance

The Future of Basketball is Here! I'm still buzzing from the #NBAAllStar weekend in Indianapolis! Witnessing the state-of-the-art LED court by ASB GlassFloor at Lucas Oil Stadium was a game-changer. Remember the good old days with basic hardwood floors? Who would've thought the court could become a giant screen? Mind blown! This is more than just a technological marvel; it's a revolution in the fan experience: Immersive visuals: Imagine live replays, real-time stats, player tracking animations, and interactive games during timeouts - all on the court itself! Enhanced engagement: This isn't just about stats, it's about storytelling. Imagine fire animations around Jimmy Butler on a hot streak or interactive challenges for fans. The possibilities are endless! Beyond basketball: This technology has the potential to transform other sports too. Imagine hockey plays unfolding on a dynamic court or interactive challenges in tennis matches. The future is here! But is it all sunshine and rainbows? Player distraction: Could all the flashy visuals affect performance? It's a valid concern, but with proper implementation, it shouldn't be a major issue. Oversaturation: Finding the right balance between information and entertainment is crucial to avoid overwhelming fans. Overall, the LED court is a glimpse into the future of sports. It's not just about the game; it's about creating a truly immersive and interactive experience for fans. And with AI integration on the horizon, who knows what wonders await? ✨ **What are your thoughts? Is this the future of sports viewing, or is it just a flashy gimmick? Share your opinions in the comments! ** #NBATech #Innovation #FanExperience #TheFutureIsNow P.S. Shoutout to Michael Jordan, Ray Allen, Yao Ming, and all the legends who played on "basic" courts! You paved the way for this exciting future! National Basketball Association (NBA) Sprite Company: https://asbglassfloor.com/ #FutureOfSports #interactiveart #interactivedesign #interactivecontent #animationscreen #innovativefloor #hugescreentv #Innovation #FanEngagement #InteractiveExperience #ImmersiveTechnology #MarketingInnovation #AdvertisingTech #AIintegration #SportsInnovation #NBA #NBAAllStar #NBATech #NBAPlayoffs #Basketball #NBAFinals #LEDCourt #InteractiveGames #RealTimeStats #PlayerTracking #ImmersiveAnimations #DistractionConcerns #BalanceIsKey https://lnkd.in/dn7gvUvE ----------------------------------- ⤵ Want to reignite your creativity and reclaim control of your personal journey? My podcast, "Control The Center," is here to empower you. Join me as we explore both personal and creative growth, together. Click the link below to dive into the episodes! 👉 https://lnkd.in/dDZVNpQH 👈

🏀🎨 Paint for Indoor Basketball Court: Tips for Long-Lasting Results 🎨🏀 Transform your indoor basketball court with vibrant, durable paint! Follow these expert tips to ensure your court looks amazing and stands up to all the action: Choose the Right Paint: Use high-quality, slip-resistant epoxy or polyurethane paint designed for sports surfaces. Prep the Surface: Clean and repair the floor thoroughly. Ensure it's dry and free of dust or debris before painting. Prime First: Apply a primer to help the paint adhere better and last longer. Apply Multiple Coats: For the best coverage and durability, use at least two coats of paint. Seal It Up: Finish with a clear sealer to protect the paint and add an extra layer of durability. Allow Proper Drying Time: Give each coat ample time to dry. Rushing this step can lead to peeling and chipping. Regular Maintenance: Keep the court clean and inspect for any signs of wear. Touch up as needed to maintain its fresh look. 🏅 Follow these steps to create a stunning, long-lasting indoor basketball court that players will love. Game on! 🏅 https://lnkd.in/d5ndZhgk

Understanding Mini Pickleball Court Dimensions Mini pickleball courts are gaining popularity for their convenience and space efficiency. These courts, perfect for smaller areas, maintain the fun and competitiveness of the game without requiring full-size dimensions. A typical mini pickleball court measures 30 feet in length and 18 feet in width, which is ideal for compact spaces like backyards or indoor facilities. Creating a mini pickleball court involves careful planning, ensuring that the court’s proportions allow for smooth gameplay while fitting into a smaller area. Despite their reduced size, mini courts still include essential features like a non-volley zone (the kitchen) and accurate markings for serving and scoring. For a detailed guide on building your mini pickleball court, including tips on maximizing space and maintaining regulation standards, check out my article on small pickleball court dimensions. Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences with mini pickleball courts in the comments. #Sports #Pickleball https://lnkd.in/dBXihKMt

In basketball, each team is given a total of 6 timeouts during the course of a game. These timeouts can be utilized strategically by the coach to regroup, revise game plans, or simply give players a breather. ⏱️ Teams are typically granted 2 full timeouts and 4 20-second timeouts per game. Full timeouts allow for more thorough discussions and adjustments, while the 20-second timeouts are shorter breaks for quick instructions. ✨ Coaches often use timeouts to rally their team, provide feedback, or make crucial decisions in close games. Players can also benefit from timeouts by resting, hydrating, and refocusing on the game. 🏀 Understanding when to call a timeout can be a critical aspect of a team's success on the court. It can disrupt the opposing team's momentum, address mistakes, or give players a chance to recharge. Next time you're watching a basketball game, pay attention to how timeouts are used strategically by coaches to influence the flow of the game! #Basketball101 #TimeoutsInBasketball #StrategicDecisions 🏀🕒