Amateur Athletic Union Expresses Support for Newly Announced Youth Basketball Guidelines

ORLANDO, Florida (Oct. 18, 2016) — The Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) voted in support of the newly established NBA and USA Basketball youth basketball guidelines during the Union’s 125th AAU National Convention, the organization announced today.

The NBA and USA Basketball teamed up to develop these guidelines aimed at improving the way youth athletes, parents and coaches experience the game, with a specific emphasis on promoting player health and wellness.

“Supporting these first-ever guidelines set forth by the NBA and USA Basketball is a no-brainer for the AAU,” said AAU President/CEO Dr. Roger J. Goudy. “Basketball is the largest sport in the Union, so we want more for our youth athletes and we have a responsibility to make sure our participants are experiencing the game in an enjoyable, inclusive and healthy manner.”

In the spring of 2016, the NBA and USA Basketball established three expert working groups focused on health and wellness, playing standards and curriculum and instruction. The groups were comprised of successful coaches and administrators from all levels of the sport, including formers men’s and women’s players, as well as leading medical experts from around the world.

“The guidelines created by the NBA and USA Basketball aim to advance youth basketball and promote player health,” said David Krichavsky, NBA Vice President, Youth Basketball Development.  “We’re pleased to have the endorsement of AAU as we look to bring together the grassroots basketball community and make a substantial impact on the game.”

AAU Director of Sport James Parker (playing standards) and AAU Basketball Senior Sport Manager Greg Turner (curriculum and instruction) were involved in the working groups.

The new guidelines coincide with AAU’s current concussion policy, which was adopted in 2013, and partnership with the Positive Coaching Alliance since 2011. Many current NBA and WNBA stars competed in the AAU as youth athletes.

Additional guidelines for youth basketball are continuing to be developed by the working groups, which is focused on developing age- and stage-appropriate curriculum, playing rules and instruction that will be released subsequently.

The full list of guidelines can be found at www.youthguidelines.com.