Tom was the captain of his school basketball team. They had made it to the finals for the first time in years.

Before the game, the coach gave a pep talk. “Remember, team—it’s not over till it’s over.”

The game started, and Tom’s team fell behind early. Some players started to panic, but Tom kept saying, “Keep your head in the game!”

During halftime, they were still losing, but the coach told them to give it their all in the second half.

Tom led the charge. With only two minutes left, they tied the game. The crowd was going wild.

With seconds left, Tom made the final shot. The ball went in at the buzzer. The team had won!

Later, Tom smiled and said, “We really left it all on the court tonight.”

The coach added, “You guys were the true underdogs, but you proved everyone wrong.”

Idioms Used in the Story

1. It’s not over till it’s over

Meaning: You shouldn’t give up because the situation could still change.

Examples:

We still have time—it’s not over till it’s over.

Don’t give up yet. It’s not over till it’s over.

2. Keep your head in the game

Meaning: Stay focused and alert.

Examples:

Keep your head in the game—we can still win.

I told myself to keep my head in the game during the interview.

3. Give it your all / Give it their all

Meaning: To put in maximum effort.

Examples:

She gave it her all in the race.

We need to give it our all for this project.

4. Leave it all on the court

Meaning: To give maximum effort, with nothing held back.

Examples:

They left it all on the court and won the championship.

The players left it all on the court in the final match.

5. Underdog

Meaning: A person or team expected to lose, but who fights hard.

Examples:

The underdogs won the match.

I always root for the underdog.