Basketball is not just a sport—it’s a way of life. It transcends age, gender, and ability—from kids playing in driveways to adults enjoying the game in gyms, basketball’s accessibility is its greatest strength. However, as we celebrate its popularity, we have to confront the challenges within the system.

NBA All-Star Luka Dončić and a group of experts who are passionate about reshaping the future of youth basketball—including LeagueApps’ president Jeremy Goldberg—spoke on a panel to discuss the future of the sport. Here are our takeaways. 

The Landscape of Basketball in the US

Basketball is the most played game—enjoyed by both youth and adults. However, the system in which we develop young talent has been criticized for being ineffective and, at times, chaotic. The fact that six NBA MVP awards have gone to international players raises questions about the effectiveness of American youth basketball. Luka Dončić is a prime example of talent at the highest level cultivated outside of the US. So, we must ask, how do we improve our grassroots system?

Luka Dončić: A Journey in Basketball

The five-time All-NBA first team guard shared his journey with the panel—from a young boy in Slovenia to an NBA superstar. His early exposure to basketball came from his father, who played the game himself. Luka began playing at a young age, at first for fun. But he quickly developed a passion for the sport. Coaches allowed him to experiment on the court, which fostered his unique style and creativity on the court.

“I started playing in school when I was around seven. It was just for fun, but I also played for Olympia as a ball boy, which gave me the chance to watch great players and learn from them,” Luka explained. This early exposure to the game, combined with local tournaments and pick-up games, laid the foundation for his success.

Embracing the Mess

Luka emphasized the significance of “embracing the mess,” which encourages young players to try new things, make mistakes, and learn from those experiences. He recalled how he faced scrutiny from some coaches for trying unconventional plays, but ultimately, this allowed him to grow as a player. “They let me be me,” he said.

The Value of Multi-Sport Athletes

Luka also credits his success to his participation in other sports, like soccer and tennis, which contributed to his footwork and athleticism. Research shows that multi-sport participation enhances skills that are transferable to basketball.

Coaching: The Backbone of Development

As Luka transitioned to play for Real Madrid as a team, he found himself in a supportive coaching environment where coaches encouraged him to express himself while also emphasizing the importance of teamwork and fundaments.

“The environment was competitive, but also fun,” he shared. This balance is crucial in youth sports, as. it develops a love for the game while promotion skill development.

Challenges in Our Youth Basketball System

Several key issues plague the youth basketball system in the US—like a focus on winning at all costs, burnout, and a lack of emphasis on fundamental skills. The pressure on young athletes to perform can overshadow the joy of playing, which leads to high dropout rates.

“Sports should be fun,” said Luka.

Our System vs Europe

In Europe, there’s generally less emphasis on tournament play, allowing for more practice time and skill development. In the US, many youth players participate in weekend tournaments every week, which can lead to overuse injuries and burnout.

Finding Solutions

One of the primary recommendations in the panel was to prioritize player development over winning—programs should focus on teaching fundamentals and fostering a love for the game, allowing your athletes to explore their potential without fear of failure.

Coaching Standards and Education

Another critical area for improvement is coaching standards. The panel emphasized the need for appropriate certification and ongoing training for youth coaches. “Coaches shape more than players; they shape lives,” one panelist noted. Equipping coaches with the right tools and knowledge is essential for creating a positive environment for young athletes.

The Role of Parents and Community

Educating parents about realistic expectations and the importance of enjoyment in sports can help alleviate pressure on young athletes, because they play a significant role in shaping the youth sports experience. “We need to support kids in their journey, not just focus on outcomes,” Luka emphasized.

Emphasizing Joy and Lifelong Learning

The focus should be on developing well-rounded individuals who will carry the lessons learned through sports into adulthood. “Basketball is a laboratory for life skills,” one expert remarked. By promoting character development alongside athletic skills, we can cultivate better human beings.

The Path Forward

The future of basketball, particularly at the grassroots level, hinges on our ability to adapt and improve. By embracing creativity, prioritizing player development, enhancing coaching standards, and fostering a supportive community, we can create an environment where young athletes thrive. As Luka Dončić and the panel has shown, the path forward is clear: let’s work together to build a better basketball ecosystem for the next generation.

To watch the full panel, click the video below.