Nothing Inspires

NOTHING INSPIRES an athlete’s performance more than the confidence of family or teammates. David Robinson, “the Admiral,” enjoyed the luxury of both as he pursued the NBA single-season scoring title in 1994.

With one game remaining, the San Antonio Spurs center trailed Shaquille O’Neal by three points in the race. San Antonio closed out the season on the road against the Los Angeles Clippers, while O’Neal’s team, the Orlando Magic, hosted the New Jersey Nets.

Although the contest meant nothing in the NBA playoff pairings, it represented a special opportunity for the former Navy All-American.

Robinson tallied the first 18 Spurs points, but a stern Clipper defense held the 7-footer to six in the second quarter. Bolstered by his team’s confidence, the Admiral rolled in the third period, racking up 19 points. With teammates continuing to feed him the ball, Robinson netted another 28 points in the fourth quarter—totaling 71 points in a 112–97 Spurs victory.

The San Antonio post joined Wilt Chamberlain, David Thompson, and Elgin Baylor as the only NBA players to score more than 70 points in a game. Later that day when O’Neal connected for 32 points, Robinson claimed the scoring crown.

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POINT David Robinson not only inspired the confidence of his family and teammates, he also gained confidence from them. The supportive Spurs dished ball after ball to Robinson, sure he could take the title and doing what they could to help him to earn the honor. Robinson’s teammates encouraged him to play his best.

God also wants us to encourage other Christians—after all, we’re all on his team. It’s a boost when others encourage us in life. We feel like we can accomplish anything when others show confidence in us.

GOAL! Decide which statement is more true for you: