Start: Everyone starts the game in a different way. Introduction to the game can come from school, friends, TV...these introductions spark the interest in the sport.

Explore: The initial interest in the sport leads to exploration. This can take place at school, with friends, through organized leagues/instruction. Through exploration, interest in the game continues.

Learn: While exploring the game, basic fundamentals and rules are taught. These skills can be given to athletes by parents, guardians, coaches and through watching peers or role models play.

Participate: The next stage is participation; this is where players take part in the sport at all levels. This can involve structured competition, local/regional teams, and their school team. Participation can also include pick up games, individual workouts, and any type of play without a coach.

Advance & Perform: Through hard work and dedication, players can advance through the game. This may involve making a high school team, a competitive club team, or invitations to showcases.

Advance & Excel: There are a small number of players that advance through the game and excel at the college or professional levels.

Basketball for Life: It is important to understand and accept that while some players advance to play basketball collegiately or professionally, and some will continue to participate in the game in other ways, everyone will eventually enter the "Basketball for Life" stage. This is where individuals can coach, teach, play, officiate or be a fan of the game for life.

(All information is adopted from the USA Basketball Youth Development Guidebook)