Psychological Support and Well-being Webinar - Part 2

As part of the ongoing exchange of knowledge and best practices among the partners of the Basketball-KTN project, YSSUKRAINE organized the second online webinar on March 19, 2025, focusing on the mental well-being of young basketball players. This event was part of a continuing effort to strengthen athletes’ psychological readiness, recognizing that true success on the court begins with mental strength.

Andrii Ohnystyi, PhD in Physical Education and Sports, highlighted key areas of psychological support, including emotional and social assistance, psychological counseling, and stress management techniques. The discussion emphasized the importance of resilience, motivation, focus, and emotional stability, particularly when athletes face high-pressure situations.

Several modern psychological methods were presented, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), relaxation and visualization techniques, and breathing exercises, all designed to enhance athletes’ mental focus and overall well-being.

The webinar also included examples from professional basketball players, such as LeBron James and Kevin Love, who have openly shared how psychological support has helped them improve their performance and maintain mental health in demanding environments.

Practical strategies were shared for addressing common challenges athletes face, including coping with defeat, managing anxiety, overcoming loss of motivation, and recovering after injuries. The meeting concluded with an insightful discussion on immediate psychological intervention in cases where players experience frustration, lack of focus, or discouragement.

Integrating psychological support into everyday basketball training is not a luxury but a fundamental component of athletic success. Mental strength builds the foundation for confidence, resilience, and maturity, both on and off the court.

Through such initiatives, Basketball-KTN continues to highlight the human side of sports — where heart, perseverance, and mental balance shape not only great players but also strong, self-aware individuals.