The "natural" progression of freshman to varsity player got lost in translation for multiple reasons. In some communities, players got "redshirted in middle school." Other players advanced via the genetic lottery or family investment in travel ball. Others got additional personal and sport-specific training.
Bottom line, some players struggle and never reach their and their family's expectations.
Perception is a snapshot. Some players with the commitment, aptitude, and effective training nonetheless climb that hill.
Most 'reserve' players want to be starters. How can that happen?
Skill development. Once 'Camp Driveway' was enough if players also had access to "playground ball." Playing against older, bigger, faster players brought "Darwinian" tests to the young player. Many young people have cellphones which allow them to study their fundamentals.
In addition to limited solo play, play one-on-one, two-on-two, or small-sided games with more touches, defense, and decision-making.
Strategy. Watch basketball both live and on video (e.g. YouTube, FIBA), studying what works. How do great players separate, finish, pass, defend, and rebound?
Take advantage of opportunities. Say "yes" to chances to improve whenever you can. Playing NBA video games or surfing the Net won't get you what "tickling the twine" gets you.
Rework your physique. Sport rewards athletic explosiveness. When players "transform their body" with resulting speed, quickness, and strength, coaches notice. It's not about being a workout warrior but developing functional movement and power without losing flexibility and skill.
Attitude. Be coachable...do your job the way your current coach wants it done. I had a few players who continually protested my suggestions. The only one who succeeded was one who finally "got it" and realized I was there to help.
Excel in your role. If you're best suited as a rebounder or elite defender and not a fit for a 'starring' role as a scorer, embrace what you're good at. Finding ways to help the team win gets you on the floor.
Eventually, you will get your chance. And few things mean more to a reserve player than hearing they've earned a starting role. "It's not because we like you (although we do). It's because you earned it."
Lagniappe. Catch-and-shoot comes first.
DON’T NEED TO BE PERFECT
— Steve Dagostino (@DagsBasketball) August 13, 2025
The best shooters are confident and fluid. They don’t need to be perfect. They can adapt to their situation and don’t let makes/misses influence their rhythm. pic.twitter.com/bW3e9UTcNy
Lagniappe 2. Whether it's school, a job, or sports, time rewards great habits.
Kirby Smart said, "We talked about execution. What creates good execution? Habits. You only get a chance to do the habits in practice."
— Coach AJ 🎯 Mental Fitness (@coachajkings) August 11, 2025
Great teams eliminate bad habits.
They know that you fall to the level of your systems and habits.
You are what you consistently do. pic.twitter.com/7mbEdqbqtR
Lagniappe 3. Some never have the burden of greatness. That means "being a dog."
Do what others aren’t willing to do
— Hoop Herald (@TheHoopHerald) August 12, 2025
Seperate yourself on the defensive end of the floor 🗣️
(Via @opoku_jace 🎥 )
pic.twitter.com/c0b7m35jvF
