From Courtside to Capital: What Basketball Taught Me About Investing

Contributed by: Cindy Wysong, CFP®

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Although the NCAA tournaments have wrapped up and March Madness has faded into spring, I thought it would be fun to reflect on how lessons from the basketball court can translate to the world of investing.

As a former player, I still carry with me the discipline, resilience, and strategic thinking I learned in the game—lessons I now share with my children, and, quite honestly, use in my approach to financial wellness. Here's what basketball taught me about investing.

1. Show Up

• On the Court:

  You can’t win if you’re not in the game. Sometimes, the hardest part is simply trying out for the team—stepping out of your comfort zone and onto the court. It takes courage, but nothing happens without that first move.

  
  

• In Investing:

  Getting started is everything. Whether it's setting up your first savings account or carving out a monthly amount to invest, showing up means taking that first step. Small sacrifices today can create meaningful rewards tomorrow. Don’t wait for the “perfect” time—it rarely comes.

2. Gear Up with the Right Tools

• On the Court:

  At a minimum, you need the right shoes and a basketball. But to play your best (and protect yourself), you might also need knee pads, braces, or goggles—gear tailored to your needs.

  
  

• In Investing:

  Your financial “gear” evolves over time. A savings account might be a great starting point, but as your assets grow, your portfolio may include mutual funds, ETFs, real estate, or private equity. And just like a player guards against injury, you protect your finances through diversification.

  
  

3. Compete with Intention

• On the Court:

  Competing isn't just about winning; it’s about consistently showing up for your team, playing with integrity, and giving your full effort. And yes, referees are there to keep things in check.

  
  

• In Investing:

  Don’t fall into the trap of comparing your financial journey to others’. The real competition is with yourself: Are you meeting your own savings goals? Are you staying consistent? And if you need a “referee,” the IRS (and your financial advisor) are there to help you stay within the lines. 😉

  
  

4. Mistakes Are Part of the Game

• On the Court:

  Every player misses shots, commits fouls, or turns the ball over. It’s part of playing the game. What matters is how you respond. Keep your head in the game.

  
  

• In Investing:

  Not every investment decision will be a winner. Even seasoned investors have stories of missed opportunities or market missteps. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress. Keep your focus, stay diversified, and avoid letting fear bench you.

  
  

5. Learn and Adjust

• On the Court:

  If you’re repeatedly getting blocked, change your move. If you keep fouling the same player, adjust your defense. Smart athletes learn not only from their own mistakes—but from those around them.

  
  

• In Investing:

  Learning from setbacks is crucial. Missed a market opportunity? Chose a stock that underperformed? That’s okay. The key is to evolve. And if financial strategy isn’t your comfort zone, bring in a professional—like you would a coach—to help guide your game.

  
  

6. Redefine Success

• On the Court:

  Success isn’t always about the scoreboard. Did you compete with heart? Show up for your teammates? Leave it all on the court? That’s a win.

  
  

• In Investing:

  Financial success is deeply personal. For some, it’s a comfortable retirement. For others, it’s travel, philanthropy, or supporting their children through college. True success is being able to live life on your own terms—with confidence, clarity, and joy.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Whether you're dribbling down a court or navigating your financial journey, the fundamentals matter: show up, stay prepared, play smart, and keep learning. You don’t have to do it perfectly—just intentionally.

And remember, just like in basketball, the best investment strategies are built over time, with practice, perspective, and a little bit of hustle.

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Cindy Wysong is a Partner and Wealth Advisor at BCWM, LLC.

To contact Cindy:

Email:  cindy@bcwm.com

Telephone: (913) 685-2300

www.bcwm.com