Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: emo
Song Meaning of “Basketball” by Speedy Ortiz
Speedy Ortiz’s song “Basketball” is an ode to perseverance through tough times. The upbeat chorus and sprightly instrumentals are counterbalanced with melancholy verses that deal with toxic relationships and oppressive environments.
Frontwoman Sadie Dupuis sings of a basketball, a metaphor for relationships and ambitions that has been filled with air but still won’t budge off the ground. Imploring her partner to give her space while also asking him to stay, she is emphasizing the paradox of trying to make things work while also trying to protect herself from painful interactions. Similarly, she expresses feelings of discouragement as she talks about waiting for forever, suggesting that she is always hoping and waiting for the opportunity to make a move while the basketball never actually rolls.
In the second verse, Dupuis challenges the stifling environment of mediocrity. She speaks about cutting out habits like smoking and drinking that are holding her back and even directly addresses her “haters.” While she does it, she recounts memories of playing basketball with her brothers, symbolizing the strength of her personal relationships and providing a sense of levity to her plight.
The chorus of the song carries a sense of faith and resilience as the vocal progression soars: “I’m gonna do what I came here to do, gonna break the rim and hoop my way through…Never keeping score when I play it.” This is a powerful reminder to keep going and reject the notions of defeat, and that ultimately a better outcome is always within reach.
Speedy Ortiz’s “Basketball” tells the story of resilience through difficult circumstances, a reminder that failure cannot keep a determined spirit down. The song carries a universal message about the importance of self-determination and understanding that while sometimes we are held back by the toxicity of our environments, only our true selves can set us free.