Balancing Development and Exposure: Finding the Right Path for Professional Growth

Technological advancements in camera equipment and editing software allow us to create high quality content for the best consumer experience.

It's not surprising that we see more and more athletes wanting highlight reels and photos to post online. Many student athletes use footage to help get recruited to colleges while professional athletes maintain some of the biggest fan bases on social media today. These platforms allows them to be more vocal and influential to their audiences often obtaining endorsement deals and businesses of their own.

Exposure almost seems necessary. I say almost because I came up playing ball without cameras or video clips. It was hard to find a quality photographer or media outlet that was willing to come to a game or practice. At times, I wish that I did have a highlight tape or social network coming up. There weren't very many schools recruiting from southern Arizona. I would like to think that a little exposure might have increased my options. However, I truly believe that if I were to have gotten multiple scholarship offers from prestigious schools like I wanted, it wouldn't be because of the amount of likes and followers I had online.

Although, your online presence does factor into future opportunities, your talent and work ethic will always speak the loudest. A thirty-second video can't convey the kind of player you are. The focus should be on your development first, in my personal opinion.

I'm sure there are plenty of people who disagree. In fact,  I've seen some athletes play better with the camera on. They play with more intensity, bringing out their competitiveness and personality. I'm not saying footage is all bad. There are many benefits depending what you're using it for. Recording a practice or game is great to study later. You can see where you need to get better or what you're really good at. I think it's also a good way to become comfortable around cameras and the media. Some players don't play well with extra pressure or distractions. However, if you want to play at a higher level, you will have to learn to shut all that out and focus on the game.

In summary, the most successful athletes take the time necessary to build skills and mental toughness before posting to the internet. Find a healthy balance that works for you and train for excellence in your sport. Highlights and exposure are cool but they should never override your long-term health and development.

Take your skills to the next level with Extra Hours Basketball. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced athlete, Coach Vaughn will help improve your game and develop necessary fundamentals. With personalized training sessions and expert guidance, you'll be amazed at how much progress you can make with just a few extra hours. Follow @extrahoursbasketball and @vc_extrahours on Instagram for more updates.