"Slam Dunk" is a Japanese Manga (graphic novel). It is about a high school freshman guy who joins a basketball team for a girl, finds his love for basketball, meets rivals and friends,wins and loses matches, and grows through all the experience. It was a wildly popular Manga in early 90s, along with other famous titles like "Dragon ball","Yu-yu hakusho" and "Inu-yasha".
Some time ago I realized that some people in internet are taking all the trouble translating full bunch of these Japanese Mangas to English and making them available for free.
I thought I quit reading Mangas after coming to the US in 1998. I thought of the time I spent for reading them while in Japan. It was a lot of time, believe me. But after a decade of Manga-less life, out of a bit of nostalgia and curiosity, I picked up a few titles and started reading them.
It was amazing to know how fuzzy or accurate my memories can be. The translators were overall doing very good job. Sure, there are some funny or creative translations, but mostly they are fine.
Okay, back to the "Slam Dunk". I didn't really remember the story or which team won the match or who did what, and it helped to keep my interest. After a few sleep-deprived nights, I finished reading all 31 volumes. It was a real page-turner.
In a scene, the captain of the basketball team had the freshman rookie guy (who never played basketball until then) practice basics. Dribbling in place for a week. Of course it's boring and frustrating. The rookie almost quit. But later, right before an important tournament, he willingly took on 20,000 shooting practice to improve his scoring ability. The practice did not immediately make him a shooting genius, but he figured his success rate is highest when he positions himself at 45 degree on the right from the basket. By practicing, you learn a lot about yourself. Then... ok I hate to be a spoiler.
That reminded me of my own high school days. Somehow we had time for those ridiculous things.That also reminded me of how important basics are for any sport. Of course dancing included.
Most people dance for recreation, for fun. It's fine. But if you are serious about getting better, consider working on basics in a focused manner, just like the basketball guy dribbling the ball for a week. I respect dancers who use the word "training". It shows they are serious, and the result definitely shows on the dance floor.
