Kawhi Leonard used a secret tool to improve his game

It may be hardly noticeable on TV, but a certain phenomenon occurs almost every time an NBA player reaches the apex of his shot: a series of flashing lights from cameras sitting along the baseline go off. While these lights may not bother us, they can certainly affect a player who is trying to complete the difficult task of accurately putting a basketball through an 18 inch hoop while surrounded by distractions.

One of the best kept secrets in the sport (until now) was how the great Michael Jordan himself developed a way to combat such distractions: strobe lights. (Yes, you read that right.)

Tom Haberstroh of ESPN’s TrueHoop takes an in-depth look at how the method of practicing with lights flashing in their eyes have gone on to improve the games of many greats, including modern-day stars like Steph Curry and Kawhi Leonard, who has used the method not only to improve his shot, but his handle on the ball as well.

It’s a fascinating read, and I encourage you to take the time and go check it out.