Coaches

I just finished my 10th youth basketball coaching season (ranging from 2nd to 6th grade). I understand that different players will play on school teams in 7th, 8th, 9th grade teams (or beyond) based on a) ability b) physical attributes c) commitment to the game --- not necessarily as a result of youth basketball experiences.

With that in mind, in my seasons as a youth basketball coach, I've made every effort to evenly play our kids. Full-court presses, half-court traps, uptempo pace of play certainly are in our favor as we openly will play all 10 guys. For most of every game we are aggressive and reward good defensive play. Starters play half of each quarter, reserves have the other half to prove they deserve to play with the 1st group. When 4th quarters roll around - we are competing to win games (yes, even in youth basketball). Players that have stood out will play and playing time beyond will be determined by time, score, etc. Starting positions are determined by a) previous games effort/performance b) practice effort/performance c) player's history against particular team

Coach K quote for the hungry player: "When you sub, tell the player to give you 3 great minutes & if your bust your tail, I'll give you an extra minute."