Discussion Points
- Confidence vs. Pressure: Learn how placing a player on the right team boosts confidence instead of creating burnout.
- Skill Development: Discover why using both a and b teams helps players rebuild fundamentals and grow stronger.
- Team Morale: Understand how smart placement decisions protect chemistry and culture across your program.
Did You Know?
Player placement isn’t just about raw skill. Studies show that 82% of youth athletes report noticeable growth when placed correctly between a and b teams, which highlights how vital thoughtful decisions are in this area. It impacts more than playing time—it shapes player development, team culture, and the entire basketball community you’re building.
Imagine this…
You’re a youth basketball coach, and the season just kicked off. Two weeks in, you realize your “star” player is struggling. Maybe they’re overwhelmed with the pace of the A team, or maybe the chemistry just isn’t clicking. On the flip side, you’ve got a B team player who’s clearly dominating every drill, looking like they’re ready for the next step.
You start to ask yourself:
- How do I handle this?
- What do I say to the parents?
- How will this impact the player’s confidence?
- Am I doing what’s best for the individual, or just protecting the team?
This is the reality of coaching when a and b teams come into play. The balance requires honesty, empathy, and strategic thinking.
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Why Moving Players Between A and B Teams
Shifting players between a and b teams isn’t simply about who can shoot better or run faster. It’s about creating an environment where each kid can thrive at their current stage.
I’ll never forget one freshman we had. This kid had heart, hustle, and potential, but the varsity pace was crushing him. He wasn’t ready—yet. By moving him down, giving him space on the B team, he found his confidence, sharpened his fundamentals, and eventually emerged as a leader. By the time he returned to the A team, he wasn’t just surviving—he was thriving.
I like to compare it to chess. You’re not just moving a piece—you’re anticipating how every move impacts the board. In basketball, that board is your entire program. When done right, transitioning between a and b teams becomes a strategy of growth, not punishment.
Why Moving Players Between A and B Teams Works
1. Confidence Boost: Sometimes being the best player on the B team is exactly what a kid needs. It gives them a chance to lead, to carry responsibility, and to feel what it’s like to succeed at a high level within their environment.
2. Focus on Fundamentals: When players struggle on the A team, it often means the foundation is shaky. Moving them back lets them rebuild their fundamentals without the pressure of advanced systems or opponents they’re not ready for.
3. Team Chemistry: Proper placement keeps morale intact. Nothing kills chemistry faster than mismatched skill levels. By balancing a and b teams correctly, you protect the integrity of both groups and create opportunities for every player to feel they belong.
How I Apply This in My Coaching
Over the years, I’ve developed some go-to strategies to manage movement between a and b teams. If you’re facing this challenge right now, here’s what I’d recommend:
- Regular Evaluations
Don’t wait until midseason to realize someone is in the wrong spot. Hold consistent evaluations, whether through drills, scrimmages, or even film review. You’ll catch things early, which makes transitions smoother.
- Honest Conversations
This part isn’t easy. You need to sit down with parents and players and explain the reasoning. I’ve found that being upfront while focusing on long-term development helps soften the blow. Parents may not like the decision at first, but when they see progress, they get it.
- Anchor in Fundamentals
If you’re moving a player down, frame it around skill-building. Emphasize that this isn’t a demotion—it’s a chance to strengthen their foundation so they can dominate later.
- Use Your Assistants
Another coach might see something you don’t. I often bring my assistants into these evaluations because two sets of eyes are better than one.
- Encourage Community Support
Get parents involved in team culture. If families see that the program values both a and b teams equally, it helps reduce the stigma. Everyone feels part of the same mission.
Challenges Coaches Face
Let me be real with you—this isn’t always a smooth process. Sometimes parents don’t buy in. Sometimes players feel hurt. Sometimes the A team struggles after a move. But what I’ve learned is this: avoiding the tough decision usually leads to bigger problems later.
The more transparent and consistent you are, the more respect you’ll earn from your players and families.
The Bigger Picture
Coaching youth basketball isn’t just about running plays or winning games. It’s about shaping young athletes into confident, capable people. Managing a and b teams is part of that. When done right, you’re not only creating better players—you’re building a healthier culture, stronger trust, and a program that lasts.
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Wrap Up
In youth basketball, managing a and b teams is both an art and a science. It requires courage, honesty, and strategy. But when you lead with empathy and transparency, you give every player the chance to succeed at the right level.
So, coach—don’t shy away from those tough conversations. Embrace them. Because at the end of the day, your willingness to move players where they belong could be the very thing that sparks their growth.
And if you want to hear more about how Steve and I break this down, check out the full podcast episode. Then let me know what’s your biggest challenge when moving players between a and b teams?
Let’s change the game together!
FAQs
Q: How should a coach handle the conversation when moving a player from the A team to the B team?
A: It’s important to frame the conversation positively, focusing on the player’s development. Explain that the move is an opportunity to strengthen fundamentals and gain more playtime, which will ultimately enhance their skills.
Q: What criteria should a coach use to decide whether a player should move from the A team to the B team?
A: Coaches should assess the player’s skills, current performance, and potential for growth. Consider whether the player would benefit more from additional challenges or if they need more time to develop fundamental skills in a less competitive environment.
Q: How can a coach maintain team morale when adjusting player placements?
A: Communication is key. Be open and honest with the entire team about the reasons behind moves and emphasize that placement changes are part of their growth journey. Reinforce the importance of team support and encourage players to help each other develop.
Q: What role do parents play in the decision to move players between teams, and how should a coach manage their expectations?
A: Parents should be informed about the rationale behind player placements, focusing on their child’s development and future potential. Include parents in discussions, listen to their concerns, and provide a clear plan that outlines how the movement will benefit their child.
Q: How does player movement impact team dynamics, and what steps can a coach take to minimize disruption?
A: Player movements can affect team chemistry, but clear communication helps minimize disruption. Involve the team in embracing new roles and responsibilities, and organize team-building activities to strengthen unity and improve adaptability to changes.
