This partnership is non-exclusive. The Academy will continue building relationships with other high schools in similar fashion, and will continue hosting year-round skills clinics, conducting private basketball coaching sessions and performance training in other gyms. Only through this approach, will the Academy do its part in helping to boost the quality and quantity of basketball talent that emerges out of our cherished Centennial state of Colorado.

When a young basketball player reaches a higher level of skill, the common assumption is that they should join an elite team to continue their development. However, there are significant benefits to playing on a development team—a team that may not be as competitive or skilled as others. Here’s why more skilled players can thrive in this environment.

1. Leadership Opportunities

• Become a Team Leader: Skilled players on a development team often step into leadership roles, guiding less experienced teammates and setting an example on and off the court.
• Mentoring: Experienced players have the chance to mentor younger or less skilled players, which can improve their own understanding of the game.
• Building Confidence: Leading a team helps to build confidence, as skilled players are relied upon to make key plays and decisions.

2. Skill Mastery Through Teaching

• Reinforcing Fundamentals: By helping less skilled teammates with basic skills, more advanced players can reinforce their own mastery of these fundamentals.
• Developing Basketball IQ: Teaching others helps skilled players deepen their understanding of the game’s strategies and tactics.
• Improving Communication: Explaining plays and concepts to teammates enhances a player’s ability to communicate effectively on the court.

3. Increased Playing Time

• More Time on the Court: On a development team, skilled players are likely to get more playing time, allowing them to stay sharp and continuously work on their game.
• Freedom to Experiment: With more time on the court, players can try out new moves and strategies in real-game situations without the pressure of being benched.
• Handling Different Roles: Skilled players might play multiple positions or take on various responsibilities, which can broaden their versatility.

4. Building Resilience and Adaptability

• Facing Adversity: Playing on a team that struggles to win can teach players how to deal with adversity, helping them develop mental toughness.
• Adapting to Different Styles: Skilled players learn to adapt their game to the needs of the team, whether it’s scoring, defending, or facilitating.
• Learning Patience: Working with teammates who are still developing teaches patience and the importance of incremental progress.

5. Contributing to Team Growth

• Fostering a Positive Team Environment: Skilled players can help create a supportive atmosphere that encourages everyone to improve.
• Team Success: Even if the team isn’t winning championships, skilled players can take pride in helping their teammates improve and grow over the season.
• Creating a Legacy: By contributing to the development of the team, skilled players leave a lasting impact, helping to set the stage for future success.

Conclusion
While it may seem counterintuitive, skilled players can gain a lot from being on a development team. The opportunity to lead, teach, and refine their skills in a less pressured environment allows them to grow in ways that might not be possible on a high-level team. Additionally, they can build important qualities like resilience, patience, and adaptability, all of which are crucial for long-term success in basketball and beyond. For young athletes looking to round out their game and character, a development team can be an unexpected but valuable path.