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Message: [QUOTE="PacoSwede, post: 5026781, member: 120"] i feel this is the #1 factor that differentiates players. but it's rarely acknowledged. fans focus on various other talents and abilities, and tend to ignore the most important thing of all: the level at which a kid does what's needed when the pressure is greatest. the 'talent' of being 'clutch' is weird. there's no formula to explain it. i don't know if anyone can explain where it comes from or how to attain it. does anyone know how to 'work on it' in practice or perfect their 'clutchness' technique? that even[I] sounds[/I] absurd. i've never heard a coach give advice on how to thrive on pressure, or avoid wilting under it. maybe a psychologist or a theologian could intervene. maybe they know the formula. but i've never heard of them making a difference. some folks perform exceedingly well when confronted with pressure, some crumble, while most folks simply carry on and hope and pray their normal contribution will suffice. all would love to be the hero, but only a few seem to be able to consistently fill the role. [I]very [/I]few. to me, the huskies who clearly quality are paige, diana, maybe maya and sue. of course, even they at times fall short. i'd bet on them to come through in the end, though. OTOH, i wouldn't paint some of those you mentioned as clutch. it's a rare ability -- or rather magic -- that is too often overlooked in fandom. [/QUOTE]