UNDERSTANDING PLAYING TIME DYNAMICS IN REP BASKETBALL

Q: At what age group does playing time in REP basketball transition from being equal to having to be earned?

A: Playing time stops being equal as players progress into the U13 age group and beyond in REP basketball. In the U10-U12 age groups, playing time is typically divided into shifts, with the exception of Coalition and OBLX games where playing time is not shifted.

Q: What is the primary difference in playing time allocation between REP basketball and recreational leagues for youth players?

A: In REP basketball, playing time is not evenly distributed, unlike recreational leagues. REP basketball emphasizes competition, and players must earn their court time through performance and effort.

Q: We all the paid the same amount of money, shouldn't the player all get equal playing time?

A: Parents invest in REP basketball for their children to obtain a basketball education and the opportunity for their children to earn playing time during games. Earned playing time distinguishes REP basketball from less competitive streams like house league where playing time is sometimes evenly distributed. When it comes to playing time in REP: playing time is NOT a right, but every player has the right to EARN their minutes.

Q: Who decides how much playing time a player has earned?

The head coach is the only person who decides how much time a player has earned.

Q: What Factors determine playing time?

A: Playing time is influenced by several factors:

Matchups: Coaches often adjust playing time based on how well a player matches up with the opposing team's strengths and weaknesses. For example, if the opposing team has a dominant center, a coach might prioritize playing a stronger defensive player with size in that position.

Player Development: First-year players are often in the development phase and may not get as many minutes as more experienced teammates. In their second year, however, players typically show significant improvement and often play a larger role in the team's success, contributing more and earning additional playing time.

Game Strategy: A coach may decide to play certain players more depending on the specific game plan, such as needing more shooters or defensive specialists on the court during critical moments.

Q: Wouldn't not playing many minutes make my child want to quit basketball?

A: We experimented by creating a smaller team roster of 11 players and implement a policy of equal playing time for a U15 high school team. The results of this approach surprised us. We observed that guaranteeing equal playing time led to decreased attendance at practices, a lack of motivation among players to improve their skills, and even a reluctance among some players to attend games when their minutes were secured.

Contrary to our expectations, we discovered that players enjoy competing for minutes. They are eager to work hard and are willing to accept less playing time to be in a competitive environment. This revelation prompted us to shift our strategy, where players must earn their playing time. Interestingly, this change resulted in increased enthusiasm among players and revitalized their interest in the game.

Q: What benefits does the emphasis on earning playing time bring to players beyond the basketball court?

A: Understanding that playing time must be earned encourages a strong work ethic, builds character, and fosters traits such as resilience, perseverance, and a commitment to self-improvement.

Emphasizing the need to earn playing time also teaches crucial social skills, such as the ability to assess where they stand relative to others on a team or in an organization. This self-awareness is key social skill, as the first step to improvement is being able to self-reflect. Once players understand their current position, they can focus on putting in the hard work necessary to achieve success and move up the ladder. ​

Q: If my child doesn't get a lot of playing time in games, aren't they just wasting their time?

A: In a competitive basketball environment like REP, the most valuable aspect is practice, which constitutes the vast majority of time players spend in REP basketball. During practice, all players receive equal playing time and development. Practice is where they obtain their basketball education, an asset that lasts a lifetime. Basketball is a game that many play throughout their entire lives, and their education will benefit them for a lifetime, even if a child doesn't log significant game time in their current REP season. 

Q: If my child wants to earn more playing time, what should they do?

A) If a player desires more playing time, they should bring a notebook and pencil to practice, then approach the coach directly and ask, "Hey coach, what can I do to earn more playing time?" The player should take notes and keep a log of the coach's instructions. Refer to the notebook on a regular basis and continue working hard on the coach's guidance. The player can bring his notebook and ask the coach at EVERY practice what they can do to improve. This will be the most effective approach, putting the player in the best possible position to earn more minutes on the court. 

Q: As a parent, should I confront the Coach about my child's playing time?

A) Many coaches adopt the policy of not discussing playing time with parents—and for good reason.

Parents often approach coaches immediately after a game when emotions are running high. In these moments, frustration can lead to saying things they don’t truly mean, and effective communication becomes difficult. Such confrontations can strain the parent-coach relationship.

Instead, we encourage players to take the initiative and approach their coach directly. By asking, “What can I do to earn more playing time?” and taking notes on the feedback provided, players gain clear, actionable steps to improve. Parents and players can then review these notes together, ensuring everyone is on the same page about the expectations and progress.

This approach fosters better communication, reinforces accountability for the player, and maintains a positive, collaborative relationship between parents, coaches, and players.

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In summary, there’s a well-known saying: "I’ve never met a coach who doesn’t want to win." If a player can help the team win, they’ll earn plenty of minutes on the court. The key for players is to find a way to contribute, and once they do, the rest will naturally fall into place.