Basketball changes lives. But today, too many kids are walking away from the sport. Five months of research across two continents revealed why—and how we can change it.

What’s Inside

  • The real lessons basketball teaches (and why they matter more than ever)
  • An unfiltered look at youth basketball in the United States and the Balkans
  • Real insights from players, parents, and coaches who've seen it all
  • The Total Hoops Approach, a blueprint to flip the script on how kids experience the game

"Basketball has meant everything to me since I was a kid. It taught me about teamwork, perseverance, and joy. Every child deserves that opportunity. This report is our first step in making sure they get it."

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Additional Resources

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Get the Total Hoops Handbook

A practical guide for coaches and parents to implement research-backed principles that create better players and better people. From embracing mess and joy to preparing players for life beyond the court.

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Help us protect basketball's power to change young lives. Your contribution supports our research and advocacy work to make youth basketball more accessible, enjoyable, and impactful for every child.

Youth Sports Council

We're assembling a powerhouse council of sports legends and visionaries to transform youth basketball development and create a future where every young athlete thrives.

Stephen Curry

Stephen Curry

@stephencurry30

Dirk Nowitzki

Dirk Nowitzki

@swish41

Sabrina Ionescu

Sabrina Ionescu

@sabrina_i

Tracy Mcgrady

Tracy Mcgrady

@TMacFoundation

Pau Gasol

Pau Gasol

@paugasol

Bill Duffy

Bill Duffy

@billduffy

Igor Kokoškov

Igor Kokoškov

@igor-kokoskov

Grant Hill

Grant Hill

@realgranthill

Steve Nash

Steve Nash

@stevenash

Thank You

We expect to have more information to share about eligibility requirements and the application process to participate in the program in early 2026.

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