Galen Harkness • February 19, 2025
Hard Work Overcomes Obstacles
The difference between those who succeed and those who don’t isn’t talent—it’s effort.

The difference between those who succeed and those who don’t isn’t talent—it’s effort. Many players have faced challenges but refused to let them define their future. If you want to level up your game, you need to put in the work—day in and day out.
Forming Your Plan:
Set a daily goal. How many shots will you make? How much ball-handling will you do?
Track your progress. Improvement comes from consistency.
Challenge yourself. Growth happens when you push past your limits.
EYG Basketball is built for players who are ready to work. Whether it’s Training, Camps, Programs, or Academies, we give players the tools to improve. Learn more at https://app.upperhand.io/customers/165-eyg-basketball/events].

At 19 years old, Dominique Malonga was the youngest player drafted in the WNBA when the Seattle Storm picked her No. 2 overall. With her size, skill, and potential, she was called a “unicorn.” But her rookie season didn’t start with highlight reels. It started on the bench. For most of the first half of the season, she barely played. Frustrating? Absolutely. But instead of being negative, Malonga stayed ready. She studied veterans like Nneka Ogwumike, clapped for her teammates, and asked constant questions. She turned frustration into fuel. By midseason, the patience and hard work paid off. Malonga became the youngest player in league history to reach 300 points and record back-to-back double-doubles. Suddenly, Seattle’s playoff hopes rested on the same rookie who was once just watching from the bench. So, what can players learn from Malonga? Patience and persistence matter. Success isn’t instant—stay consistent. Learn from the best. Watch, listen, and apply what veterans do. Confidence comes from work. She built belief through preparation. Energy is everything. Even before she played big minutes, her attitude lifted her team. Work > hype. Being called a star means nothing if you don’t put in the reps. Malonga’s story is a reminder: greatness is built day by day. Talent opens the door, but work, mindset, and resilience keep you in the room. At EYG Basketball, we help players do exactly that. Whether it’s skill development, game IQ, or building the habits that matter, our programs prepare you for your moment—on and off the court. š Ready to grow? Explore EYG Programs Original ESPN article link





