by Jefferson Mason, on Jun 28, 2021 10:00:00 AM
One of the most common questions I receive when AAU season begins is about playing level versus playing time. More specifically:
Should my child play on the best AAU team they can make, even if that means limited minutes, or should they join a lower-level team and get more time on the court?
To answer this, it’s worth looking not only at the player’s individual development but also at the history and mission of the AAU itself.
What Does AAU Stand For?
AAU stands for the Amateur Athletic Union, an organization founded in 1888 that has served as a leader in international sport for well over a century. In its early years, the AAU represented the United States in international sports federations and worked closely with the Olympic movement to prepare athletes for the Olympic Games.
The AAU oversaw sports such as track and field, basketball, and many others—providing programs for all participants and building opportunities for amateur athletes of all ages. For decades, it played a central role in shaping how Americans trained, competed, and advanced to elite levels.
You can learn more about how Dr. Dish supports AAU teams with training equipment and resources that align perfectly with this mission.
A Shift in Role: The Amateur Sports Act of 1978
In the years the AAU served as the national governing body for many sports, it controlled much of the Olympic pipeline. That changed with the Amateur Sports Act of 1978, which reassigned Olympic governance to individual national governing bodies. The AAU then refocused on grassroots sports programs and AAU national competitions.
Today, the AAU runs events for participants of all ages, hosts the AAU Junior Olympic Games, and continues to uphold its mission of “Sports for All, Forever.” Initiatives like AAU Cares highlight the organization’s ongoing commitment to community and opportunity.
Playing Level
Playing at the highest possible level is often the goal for both players and parents. While ambition is important, it’s not always the best path for development. As NBA star Joel Embiid famously said: “Trust the Process.”
Sometimes, playing at the highest level can be detrimental if it means a player rarely sees the floor, loses confidence, or stops enjoying the game. Every player’s growth curve is different—some peak early, while others develop later. In some cases, competing with peers closer to their own skill level provides more meaningful touches, confidence-building moments, and opportunities to improve.
On the other hand, playing on a team that’s not competitive enough can stunt growth, too. That’s why it’s important to find a balance—balancing AAU competition with individual skills training ensures development continues even if game minutes vary.
Playing Time
From my own experience, it’s beneficial to be in an environment where a player is challenged but also trusted with real minutes. This balance allows them to grow in both skill and game IQ.
One of the best ways to gauge fit is through honest communication with the coach—before the season, mid-season, and after the AAU season ends. These conversations give a clear picture of the player’s progress and role. While I never suggest quitting mid-season, feedback can guide better decisions for the future.
Sometimes that decision involves mixing off-season training with limited AAU play, which can be a great way to maximize both skill development and recovery.
Challenges
Friendships can also influence team choices. Especially in the early years of youth basketball, playing with friends can make the game more enjoyable. But as players progress, skill differences emerge. Some friends may advance to higher levels while others remain in developmental stages. Parents and coaches need to recognize these shifts and communicate openly with young athletes about their long-term goals.
It’s also critical to understand the difference between practice and skill development—simply logging minutes in games isn’t enough if those minutes aren’t reinforcing the skills needed to succeed.
So What’s the Right Choice?
The AAU’s history shows that it has always balanced playing level and player development—from its role in the movement to prepare athletes for the Olympic Games to its present-day focus on grassroots sports programs.
When making the choice between higher-level competition with limited playing time and more minutes at a lower level, the answer lies in the player’s confidence, enjoyment, and growth trajectory. Aim high during tryouts, give maximum effort, then assess the fit afterward.
Understanding what college coaches value from AAU players can also help guide your decision. The ultimate goal? Continual growth, excitement, and progress over time—qualities that ensure every athlete, whether in the AAU’s biggest events or local leagues, has the chance to become the best version of themselves.
Coaches and parents: Stay tuned to our blog for more insights on basketball development, training strategies, and navigating youth sports. And remember: train hard, train smart, and train with a purpose.
