Mihnea Oprea, a talented basketball player, knows that critical moments in a game can hinge on a split-second decision. He recently experienced the weight of responsibility firsthand during a game that was tied at 66-66, where he faced a free throw amidst a sea of opposing fans, or in a tense moment with eight seconds left and a score of 79-79.
Beyond these pivotal moments, Mihnea’s journey has been influenced significantly by those who have believed in him. From his supportive parents and coaches to the experts at GO Scholarship, these relationships have equipped him to handle the pressures of competitive sports both physically and mentally.
In a recent interview with BRD Locker Room, Mihnea reveals what it means to give everything you have, especially in high-pressure situations, where every second can determine the outcome of a game. He discusses the importance of trust, decisive moments, and the people who have guided him along the way.
From Play to Passion
“The first people to see potential in me were my parents. As a child, I was active, energetic, and daring, which led them to enroll me in various sports to discover what I enjoyed most. I stumbled upon basketball in my school gym, and a coach who was selecting players for the performance group saw something in me and chose me. At the time, I was also playing soccer, but I immediately opted for basketball. What started as a pastime gradually evolved into my great passion.”
When “You Can Do It!” Alleviates Pressure
“I experienced two moments where trust truly mattered. In one game tied at 66-66, amid a crowd of rival fans, I felt a collective ‘You can do it!’ that helped me stay focused and score. Later, with eight seconds remaining and the score at 79-79, that encouragement came from within. I took a risk, made a fake, drove to the basket, and scored, leading us to a victory of 81-79. These are moments I will never forget. Confidence triumphed over pressure.”
Ready for the Final Second
“The GO Scholarship program taught me that to be the leader my team needs until the last second, I must be prepared on all fronts. Physical trainers, sports psychologists, physiotherapy, organization, and nutrition have all contributed to making me stronger, keeping me clear-headed, and allowing me to think strategically even at the end of a game.”
The Final Resource
“Yet, that ‘and something more’ has always come from my family. When I feel like I’ve given everything on the court and am completely drained, the thought of my parents gives me the energy I need to find that last reserve. From them, I have learned to be grateful in victory and strong in defeat.”
The GO Scholarship program supports young athletes in understanding performance as a journey of development, balance, and continuous learning. BRD reaffirms its commitment to those who strive to achieve their goals through a new campaign centered on the idea that ‘Success comes when you give your all and then some.’
BRD & GO Scholarship: A Partnership for Performance
