Yes, multiple sport experiences add athletic value. If players only play basketball then its our responsibility to be intentional about implementing movement variability into their development. Hide the vegetables in the sauce.

Saline Michigan. Its a big district they have three elementary schools, an intermediate 4-5, middle 6-8 then highschool.

@Nayib Villarini awesome! I've realized it not always about adding more, but rather what can I subtract.

I know gym time is valuable, but setting aside 10 minutes have them play. Have players play tag. Get them moving with different games that aren't necessarily basketball. Ultimate Frisbee, team handball, capture the flag etc. Although, they may not be basketball, they do cross over and transfer to support their overall athletic development. Here is one basketball specific 1v1 game that I have found makes a difference in a players naturally moving smoothly. Defense puts arms out and places finger tips on offensive players shoulders. Offensive player use change of speed change of direction dribble and footwork to detached from the defender. Once detached they now have created space then they make a read to shoot or drive. The defense can try to reattach if they do offensive has to detached again. For less pressure you can start with on hand attached. Players will naturally play with change of pace, different height levels, different dribble moves, quicker spacing read shoot or drive etc. There are many constraints you can use- limit playing area, shot clock, award offense and defense points etc.

If a player has the what it takes to get recruited coaches will take notice and find you. Too much emphasis is put on what circuit a player is in. Good to great players will get it done despite the circuit they are in. Development as a basketball player trumps what jersey/shoe they wear. They continue to to develop by playing basketball. More emphasis on playing less on the importance of what circuit they are affiliated with.

Mini conversations...Kids like us also have a certain bandwidth capacity. Outside factors could be dipping into that bandwidth. You can learn so much from mini conversations what makes them tick. You will find motivators specific to that player that you can intentionally implement via small-sided games. Should be noted in player development plan. Always acknowledge their positive efforts in change as well as progress in development.