No one better to learn from than someone who has put in the work himself.
There is an endless supply of inspiring stories among athletes. Paul Lee’s is just one of many. Growing up in the streets of Tondo, Lee did not get formal basketball training. And even after an impressive high school run with the San Sebastian Staglets, he was not heavily recruited when it was time to go to college.
Lee had to earn his stripes. And earned it he did. Now, the former PBA Finals MVP and Best Player of the Conference is giving back.
The UE product was present in one of the basketball camps of Simple Grind led by coach Nicolo Chua. Simple Grind is the same group that has been helping Lee hone his craft.
In a recent video uploaded by Chua, the Magnolia Hotshots star was captured sharing words of motivation to the young campers, sharing lessons that will transcend basketball. One of which: willingness to learn.
“It’s a good sign na ‘yung dedication ninyo at [an] early stage, nandiyan na kaagad,” Lee said to the young ballers.
“Sana huwag kayong magsawa na matuto at magpaturo sa mga coaches natin.”
Lee also reminded the campers about the importance of diligence, and how progress may not come easy.
“Hindi naman natin makikita agad in one month or two months ‘yung ginagawa natin ngayon,” he said. “Years ‘yung kailangan natin para mag-improve talaga.”
Coach Chua did make a good decision in inviting Lee to the camp. The kids ought to hear from someone who has put in the work himself.
“Kahit noong umabot na ‘yan ng pro. Kahit nag-Best Player of the Conference na ‘yan, nag-All-Star na ‘yan, continue pa rin siya,” Chua said of Lee as he recalled his workouts with the PBA veteran.
“Hindi ‘yung basta na-achieve na niya 'tong level na ‘to, tumigil na siya,” the coach added.
It’s been almost 12 years since Lee entered the PBA, but the work is never done.
Watch his whole spiel here: