The “Elite” Epidemic: How Youth Basketball Lost Its Way
There’s an epidemic in youth basketball today—and it’s not about NIL deals or whether college players should get paid. It’s about one word: Elite.
In the world of AAU basketball, the word elite has become overused, misused, and misunderstood. It’s caused confusion for parents, frustration for coaches, and unrealistic expectations for players. At Pro Skills Basketball, we’ve seen it firsthand. Too many kids believe they’re “elite,” and too many parents insist their child should be playing on an “elite team.”
What Does “Elite” Really Mean?
Yes, there are elite youth basketball players. But not every player who shows up to a tryout is one. That’s not meant to discourage—it’s just the truth.
Being competitive is a great quality. It’s natural to want to play at the highest level. In fact, at PSB Charlotte, we have high school “Elite” teams composed of players with the talent, work ethic, and commitment to compete against top competition and potentially play in college. These teams have helped over 90 players earn college basketball opportunities in the last several years.
But here’s the thing: not everyone is ready for that level yet—and that’s OK.
The Problem with Chasing “Elite” Too Soon
Far too often, we hear things like:
“We’re going to pass on the local team spot, but let us know if a spot opens on the elite team.”
“My son is definitely top 10 in this gym. He should be on the elite team.”
As a coach and AAU director, these messages can be frustrating—not because we don’t want your child to succeed, but because chasing status over development is not what’s best for most young players.
The truth is, sitting on the bench of an elite team does less for your development than playing meaningful minutes on a regional or local team. Game reps, leadership opportunities, and confidence all grow when a player is in the right role at the right time.
Parents, Stop Comparing. Start Supporting.
We get it—parents want the best for their kids. But comparing your child to others, trying to “rank” them, or pushing them toward an elite label too early can actually hinder their growth.
Instead, ask:
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Is my child getting meaningful playing time?
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Are they developing their basketball IQ and skills?
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Do they love the game and enjoy the process?
Focus on development, not labels.
My Journey: From Canton to College Offers
Back in 2001–2005, I was just a kid from Canton, Ohio—a city known for producing top basketball talent and over 20 NBA players (including two of my uncles). During my sophomore year, I went to the Five-Star Basketball Camp, earned MVP honors, and started receiving Division 1 offers from powerhouse conferences like the ACC, Big Ten, SEC, and Big East.
Did I play on an elite AAU team?
No. I played for Top Prospects and later the NEO Shooting Stars, which became the King James Shooting Stars—yes, LeBron’s team. But I never worried about labels. I just wanted to play, get better, and earn a scholarship.
Even though Ohio had elite programs like All-Ohio and CBC, I stayed focused. My goal wasn’t to wear an elite jersey—it was to earn an opportunity through hard work and performance.
Unfortunately, two ACL tears changed the course of my playing career, but my mindset stayed the same: Play. Improve. Compete.
A Lesson from CJ McCollum
Take CJ McCollum, for example. He’s a Canton native and good friend. He didn’t go to Duke or Kentucky—he went to Lehigh University, a school few basketball fans knew at the time.
But he worked. He improved. And now, he’s a legit NBA star.
CJ didn’t need an elite team or elite label. He simply maximized every opportunity he had—and that made all the difference.
What Should Youth Players Do Instead?
Not everyone is elite from Day 1—and that’s perfectly normal. Every player’s path is different, and what matters is how you walk your own.
Here’s our advice to players and parents:
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Play where you’ll play. Don’t chase benches—chase reps.
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Focus on development. Use every season to improve, compete, and learn.
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Be patient. Elite status is earned over time, not handed out at 12 years old.
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Love the game. If you truly love basketball, you’ll work on your craft regardless of your team’s label.
At PSB, we place players on teams where they’ll grow—not where they’ll sit.
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Final Word: Keep Working
So, to every young player out there: stop worrying about whether you’re “elite” yet. That title doesn’t define you—and it doesn’t determine your future.
What will define you is your grit, work ethic, and passion for the game.
Play hard. Play smart. Stay humble. Keep working.
Ready to take the next step in your child’s basketball journey?
Pro Skills Basketball offers Club Teams, Camps, Clinics, and Academies in 25+ cities across the U.S.
👉 Find your city and sign up today to join a program focused on real development, experienced coaches, and a culture that puts players first.
📩 Contact us at admin@proskillsbasketball.com
📞 Call us at 866-996-3888
