In basketball, being decisive during the final minutes of a game is a rare and valuable skill. Over time, some players build a reputation for making seemingly impossible shots, completely altering the game’s momentum when it matters most. Think of Ray Allen sinking a three-pointer to tie up Game 6 of the 2013 NBA Finals against the Spurs—the crowd instantly knew that Miami had a chance again.

Many teenagers dream of being that player—the hero who rescues the team when all seems lost. In their imagination, they grab the ball, ask teammates to clear out, and score in a one-on-one matchup.

However, in reality, even if you know you can deliver under pressure, it takes more than skill to succeed at crunch time. Experience is crucial for staying calm when the deadline arrives and there’s still work to do. Equally important, your teammates must trust you to lead the final push, just as you must trust them to play their roles effectively.

It’s a great asset to know you can accelerate when the clock is ticking, but true success comes from syncing with your team. Make sure everyone is prepared to handle the pressure together, so the final effort is a collective one.