Today’s Playbook

Hi guys, my basketball season has come to an end, and it didn’t finish the way I had hoped in the Turkish League. Over the next couple of weeks, I’m planning to spend time with my family and reset before diving into my offseason plans.

Here’s what’s been on my mind in this week’s newsletter:

• 🏀 Locked IN

• 🌱 Maximizing Recovery and Performance with Red Light

• ▶️ YouTube → Did Spanoulis Just Outcoach His Mentor?

🏀Locked IN

The other day, I was watching Full Speed, the NASCAR docuseries on Netflix, and something in Season 2, Episode 1 really stuck with me. In the intro, one of the drivers says he becomes a different person when he gets behind the wheel. And I thought that’s exactly how I feel when I step on the court.

The Switch Flips

There’s this switch that flips. It’s not something I plan. It just happens.

Off the court, I’m chill, respectful, and always trying to uplift those around me. But once that game starts, I tap into a different mode, laser-focused, locked in, relentless. Some of my teammates have even said, “Man, you say stuff during games that you’d never say in real life.” And they’re right.

It’s not about being rude or fake, it’s about reaching the highest version of myself as a competitor. I’ve always connected with what Kobe called the Mamba Mentality.

That idea of stepping into an alter ego to elevate your game. For me, it's not about trying to prove anything to others; it's about tapping into that mindset where I can push beyond my limits and give everything I’ve got.

Whatever Gets You There

When you're playing at the highest level, especially as a pro, you have to find that zone. It doesn’t just happen. For some, it’s music; for others, it’s prayer, meditation, or journaling.

Every athlete has their own way of tapping into that competitive mindset and sometimes, the methods are a little unorthodox.

When I was with the Milwaukee Bucks, I remember having a conversation with Bobby Portis about this exact topic. I asked him, “What gets you into that zone before a game? What’s your trigger?” And what he told me was wild, but it made perfect sense.

He said, “Man, back in the day, I used to imagine somebody punched my mom in the face right before tip-off.”

That mental image would instantly flip a switch for him. It sparked that edge, that raw intensity he needed to dominate on the floor. Now obviously, that’s not something he holds onto anymore, but it speaks to just how real and deep the emotions run when you’re trying to make it at this level.

Because the truth is: in this profession, you're not just competing against guys who want to win. You're up against people who need to win, because their livelihood depends on it. Their families depend on it.

So if you're walking into the game all smiles and casual energy, cool, but just know there’s someone else stepping onto that floor like everything is on the line.

elijahbryant3

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Different Sport, Same Mindset

That’s why this NASCAR clip hit so deep. Seeing someone in a completely different sport, who transforms the second they get in their element, felt so familiar. Whether it's a racetrack or a hardwood floor, when it’s go time, you have to become the version of yourself that’s ready for the moment.

For me, that mindset has been everything. That locked IN version of me is who I rely on to stay sharp, stay driven, and stay true to my goals.

And remember Faith + Consistency™. That’s the formula.

🌱Maximizing Recovery and Performance with Red Light

As a basketball player, recovery is everything. With practices, games, travel, and film study, it’s easy to feel worn down. I used to stick to the basics—ice baths, foam rolling, and stretching—but over the past couple of years, I discovered Red Light Therapy (RLT). Honestly, it’s been a great addition to my recovery toolkit.

What is Red Light Therapy?

Imagine light as more than just illumination. Red Light Therapy harnesses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to penetrate the skin and stimulate cellular function. Unlike UV light, it doesn't cause damage.

The magic happens at the cellular level. These specific light wavelengths are absorbed by chromophores within your cells, particularly in the mitochondria, often called the "powerhouses" of the cell.

Red Light Therapy offers targeted benefits that address these challenges:

• Recovery 

• Muscle Growth & Maintenance 

• Joint Protection 

• Better Sleep 

• Mental Sharpness 

What I’ve Noticed since Using It

I won’t say RLT completely changed my recovery game, because if you’ve been following me, you already know I’m a bit of a recovery freak. I’ve already built a solid routine with sleep, nutrition, hydration, mobility work, cold exposure, massage, you name it. So it’s not like I suddenly started healing twice as fast or felt all my aches disappear overnight.

What I am doing is paying close attention to:

• What science is saying,

• What high-level athletes are using and 

• Most importantly, what feels right for my body 

And while it’s tough to isolate one tool in a whole recovery system, I’ve definitely noticed some real benefits from using red light consistently.

Here are the two biggest ones:

• Better Sleep (and Naps)
  I use RLT in the evening and sometimes after afternoon practice, especially after late, night games when it’s hard to shut off. It helps me wind down, relax, and fall asleep faster. And when I sleep better, everything else—my recovery, energy, and even mood—gets better too.

• Sharper Focus During Film
  I’ve started using the panel while watching film, and honestly, it surprised me. I feel more dialed in, more focused, less brain fog, especially on days when I’m already mentally drained. It’s a small shift, but it adds up when you’re always looking for an edge.

How I use it

• 10–15 minutes per area
  I usually treat my legs, lower back, and shoulders.

• 3–5 times a week, depending on my training schedule

  More often during heavy game weeks or when I’m feeling beat up.

• 6–12 inches away from the skin
  No clothes between you and the light.

Is it Worth it?

Good panels aren’t cheap. But if you’re serious about your performance and longevity, it’s worth the investment.

Targeted Devices and Mid-Sized Panels (for spot treatment and muscle recovery on specific body parts): Generally cost between €150 and €1,000.

I got a mid-size at-home panel so I can use it consistently.

Final Thoughts

Red Light Therapy isn’t magic, but it’s powerful. Combined with good sleep, hydration, and proper training, it’s helped me with my recovery.

If you’re an athlete looking to level up your recovery, I highly recommend giving RLT a shot. Just be consistent with it!

Here’s the link, as always, to my full list of guides, available to you as a part of the Playbook Community! Playbook Guides (Workouts, Pro Tips, Mobility Guides, Recovery info, etc)

▶YouTube Journey

Lately, I’ve been working on a new series on YouTube, ‘Players Corner’, where we dive into film study together, watching, analyzing, and learning from real game footage.

In this edition, we dive into the high-stakes EuroLeague semifinal clash between Olympiacos and Monaco, a game packed with intensity, tactical battles, and emotional swings.

I take you inside the film room to break down key possessions, turning points, and the fascinating coaching duel between Olympiacos' Giorgos Bartzokas and Monaco's Vassilis Spanoulis, who, once players, are now rivals on the sidelines.

I hope you enjoy the breakdown. As always, feel free to send me your questions and thoughts.

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Thank you for grabbing your Playbook 🙏

If you have comments, questions, or suggestions, PLEASE respond to the newsletter about anything. I want to hear from you and I promise, I read every response. My goal is to continue making a great Playbook and building a great community where we all get better together. And you’re a part of that journey!

Let’s Build Confidence + Consistency™, on and off the court!

Elijah