Playing Time. Earned in Practice.

Atlanta Select Philosophy and Policy on Playing Time.

It is the intent that Atlanta Select will make our program fun for players. We want to create an environment of fun through hard work and enthusiasm. While an effort will be made to play every participant, it will not be guaranteed.  A player must earn the right by demonstrating proper character and skills in practice.

However, this is not recreational basketball, it is a highly competitive program. Payment of fees do not guarantee playing time. Again, playing time is earned in practice.

Players who do not show up for practice, but show up at game time, may possibly not earn any playing time in the scheduled game. It is unfair for the hard working player who attends practice, learn the the skills, the plays and the strategy not be allowed the opportunity to play first and the most. They earned and deserved it.

Team goals will be emphasized over the individual.

How to Earn Playing Time on a Basketball Team

If you are a player who wants to get more playing time in the games, here are some tips on how to earn more time on the court. A basketball team needs contributions in all aspects of the game. If you can fill a need on the team, you will see more playing time.

Things you'll need: Strong Work Ethic


1. Understand and execute the basic individual concepts of basketball. You must be able have a good foundation in dribbling, shooting, passing, defense and rebounding. You may eventually excel in one of these areas, but you must have a basic level of competence to be considered for playing time.

2. Understand and execute the team concepts. Know the offensive, defensive and all sets that the team uses. Especially know your role in each of those sets. If one player does not execute properly, the whole system could fail.

3. Be a good teammate. Be respectful and encouraging to players and coaches. Be a positive influence on the team.

4. Attend all practices, games and team events. Being an ever-present, active participant allows you to be an integral part of the fabric of the team.

5. Excel in an area where the teams needs help. Every team has weaknesses. Understand where the weaknesses exist and focus your game to become a specialist in those areas. The following are typical areas that you can develop a specialty that is needed:

One-on-one defense

Rebounding

Outside shooting

Grabbing loose balls

By focusing on one or two areas, you can become the specialist and be the player that the coach looks to when that specialty is needed. Remember, Dennis Rodman had a very successful career by being laser-focused on defense and rebounding. In fact, he was one of the worst shooters to ever play professional basketball. There were plenty of good shooters on his team-- but nobody played defense and rebounded like him.

Tips & Warnings


• Stay positive and take advantage of the opportunity to play when it arises.

• Make it difficult for the coach to take you off the court by continually making positive contributions.

• When you are on the bench, be a positive contributor by encouraging your teammates and staying mentally in the game.

Remember, the Atlanta Select coach selected you. He/she saw your desire and potential to be a great player. You were not selected for show. Work hard, continue to develop your skills, practice our motto "CARS - Confident, Aggressive, Relentless, SYNERGY" and your feel good playing time will be there.

Coach Z.