Published: How the Youth Can Benefit from Playing High School Sports

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USA Basketball-NBA Partnership for the Advancement of Youth Basketball

Ardrey Kell High School senior student Luke Stankavage plays the 1-2 position in the Knights men’s basketball team. As a student-athlete, Luke Stankavage takes advantage of opportunities to develop his skills in playing basketball.

USA Basketball is the organization that serves as the governing body for men’s and women’s basketball in the US. The organization is sanctioned by the International basketball federation (FIBA) as well as the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC). USA Basketball is mandated to select, train, and field athletes in FIBA sponsored competitions. The organization also develops youth basketball initiatives for player development.

For lack of health and wellness guidelines that will “foster health and age- and stage-appropriate skill development” USA Basketball and the National Basketball Association (NBA) forged a partnership to set the rules and standards that will enhance the playing experience of young basketball players.

Three working groups composed of administrators and coaches, former pro and collegiate players (men and women) and medical experts were created. They focused on three areas: health and wellness, playing rules and standards, and curriculum and instructions. The working groups came up with their recommendations.

On health and wellness, the working groups recommended personal engagement in basketball and other sports in formal or informal settings. Specialization in basketball must begin at the age of 14. Structured schedules of workout and practice must be observed, including times of rest. Parents and coaches must be educated in injury prevention and readiness.

On player segmentation, the working groups recommended age-based segmentation until the age of 13. As the child reaches 14 years old, he or she will transition to grade-based segmentation. Players 14 years old and above (Grade 9 to 12) are classified according to their grade level.

On rules and standards, the working groups recommended elements that are aligned with age-based segmentation. The rules and standard elements focused on four areas: equipment and court specifications, game structure, game tactics, and gameplay rules.