Faux Confidence

By Coach Robert

Confidence is a myth. A floating balloon of hot air waiting to be pierced.

That might sound wild in a world where “be confident” is the mantra, the message, and the motivation. But let’s be real: confidence is a feeling—and feelings are fragile. Like hot air in a balloon, all it takes is a single tack, a tiny needle, or a colder atmosphere, and suddenly that balloon starts to deflate. Slowly. Quietly. Unavoidably.

Why then do we cling to confidence like it’s something solid? Especially in basketball?

We tell players to “be confident” as if that alone will get the job done. But I say: play the right way. Be intentional. There’s a difference.

Confidence says, “I can.”

Intention says, “I know why I’m doing this.”

Confidence needs a crowd. Intention leans on understanding.

And here’s the beautiful irony: when you play with true intention—grounded in purpose, knowledge, and skill—you look confident. You move like you know what you’re doing. But it’s not confidence—it’s clarity. It’s preparation. It’s the result of showing up, stacking skills, and solving problems. That’s what holds up under pressure.

I call confidence what it really is: faux confidence. It’s fake. Temporary. Shaky. A wobbly bridge that looks stable until life shakes it—and trust me, life will shake it. A bad game, a better player, an off day—just like that, the balloon leaks. The bridge sways.

And here’s the truth: no man or woman can maintain confidence 24/7. We’re human. We slip. We doubt. We feel sluggish, unsure, and sometimes straight-up lost. Trying to maintain confidence is like trying to balance a plate on your head while running through a storm. It might look cool for a while, but it’s exhausting—and it will fall.

But intention?

Intention is rooted.

It doesn’t puff you up—it grounds you.

When you play with understanding and purpose, you’re not swayed by who walks in the gym. You’re not rattled by mistakes or moments. You’re steady. You’re problem-solving. You’re ready.

Confidence dies the moment someone faster, stronger, taller, more skilled, or more hyped walks in. But they can’t kill your intention. They can’t take away your understanding. And that’s where real power lives.

You want to feel better? Do better? Play better?

Forget confidence.

Choose knowledge. Choose purpose. Choose intention.

You’ll make better decisions. You’ll stay grounded. You’ll play free. And that’s better than any faux confidence you could ever try to show.

Intention is king.

Confidence is just hot air.

Shalom.

— Be Like David