Tre’s Trials and Tribulations, Vol. 3: Heavy Heart

by Tre Whitted

Ed.’s note: He’s baaaaack! Springfield Armor guard Tre Whitted returns for the third of a series of biweekly pieces here at the Digest. Take it away, Tre…

I had never had to play with a “heavy” heart, for lack of a better term, until two weeks ago. Hours before our first of two games against Austin, I received a call from my mother.  She told me my grandmother had been rushed to the hospital due to some medical complications. She was not doing well ,and my focus immediately shifted to home and my family.I knew I had a job to do, and that was my first priority, but the challenge was giving my heart and soul to a game when most of my heart and mind was in Wilmington with my grandmother.

I never thought I would face so many challenges this season. This challenge was one that I had not been prepared for. In the locker room before the game, I prayed and asked Jehovah for his strength. I had to be careful that I didn’t use my situation at home as an excuse to go out and play horribly.I did not want any sympathy, and my mom told me that playing my heart out for my grandma would make her smile. I did the best I could in the game, though unfortunately we did not win. However, I was excited that I earned another “badge” of character.

The D-League gives players an opportunity to do things we never thought we’d have the ability to do. I never thought I would have the mental strength to play a game while there was so much going on back home. This experience will not only help me in this profession but in others as well. In this league, we push our bodies and our minds to do things we’ve never imagined.

The first half of the season is over. I’ve learned skills that will last a lifetime. I’ve learned how to be a better leader, the true meaning of faith, how to handle adverse situations and, most importantly, how to thrive through tough times and not just “survive.” This has truly been a blessing.

As for Grandma, she’s doing great! She’s recovering and will be back in the best shape of her life in no time. I have faith in that. So this is to Elizabeth ‘mut’ Hall! Your “boobidie” loves you!

It’s back to the hardwood for me. Ready to face new challenges and experiences…stay tuned!