5 elite athletes reveal their rituals before a match

1. LeBron James throws some chalk dust in the air when it's time to start the game.

LeBron James's trademark "move" began in Cleveland, moved to Miami, disappeared for a bit, and returned to King James's court routine this season. "I love my fans and they wanted it back," he told ESPN.com in October. Kevin Garnett has done a powder toss since the start of his NBA career, as one step in an elaborate pregame ritual. LeBron's is more casual: a flashy but simple signal that it's time to play.

2. Curtis Martin reads from the Bible to get some perspective.

Before playing one of the world's most violent sports, Curtis Martin would do something decidedly calmer. The former New York Jets running back read Psalm 91 prior to each game. The passage asks believers to declare their trust in God, who serves as "refuge" and "fortress."

3. Laurent Blanc kissed his goalkeeper's head for good luck.

Good team chemistry is often essential to success. Kissing is not. But at the 1998 World Cup, French defender Laurent Blanc would kiss his goalkeeper´s shaved head before the start of each game.

4. Calvin Johnson does a little Downward Dog to loosen his muscles.

On game days, Detroit Lions receiver Calvin Johnson warms up with yoga. He told Mlive.com this month that it keeps his hips and hamstrings loose. "I know it's something that works for me," he said.

5. Ray Lewis pumped up the Ravens with some inspiring gibberish.

Before games, the Ravens linebacker would clap his hands, slap his chest, and exhort his team to win, shouting phrases like "This is it!" and "Let's leave no doubt today!" and leading chants in the huddle. Lewis allowed his passion to compensate for a lack of specific rhetoric.

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