Expectations for a New Season

Player diaries are back for the 2017/18 season! We caught up with Jack Isenbarger, who is playing for the London Lions of the British Basketball League. Isenbarger was kind enough to blog for us last season, and we're hoping to hear from more from him this year! Interview is below. 

What are your goals for the season? Are they the same as last season?

Isenbarger is shooting 46 percent from three-point range so far this season (photo via BBL).

​As far as goals for the season, our team wants to win the league and win a championship. More importantly, we want to be healthy and playing our very best basketball of the season in April as we head into the playoffs. The personal goals and motivations for each player are different, and we are still learning about one another.

Personally, my goals this year include improving my individual defense by working with our strength and conditioning staff to build lower body strength and lateral quickness. Another goal is to remain strong and healthy through the entire season. Going into my fourth year out of college and having fought through injuries in the past, I have a greater appreciation for health and the energy I need to spend taking care of my body so I can recover and perform as the season grind endures. One offensive goal of mine is to be a consistent three-point threat and improve my scoring options that come with being a sniper. This includes working on individual moves such as shot fakes into pull up jump shots, step backs, and finishing at the rim. Percentage wise, I would like to finish the season in the 90-50-40 club (90% ft, 50% fg, 40% 3pt). 

Another goal of mine is to be intentional about investing into the relationships with my teammates. I believe that the closer our relationships are with teammates and coaches, the more successful we will be on the court. It's been a blast getting to know my teammates thus far as we had a 10 day preseason trip to Poland, which really facilitated team bonding. I think we have a strong foundation and sense of belonging which will help us throughout the season when adversity comes. Another great thing for team bonding our team captain has done is that he created a fantasy NBA league which we all play in, including our GM. It's a great way to connect with guys and feed the competitive and social need of all the players. So far we won the preseason league tournament and are 3-0 heading into a double header weekend against Newcastle and Leeds.

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