One of the biggest misunderstandings in youth sports is judging athletes too early.
At 10 years old, players are developing at very different speeds.
Some children mature physically earlier than others.
They may be taller, faster, or stronger, which can look like talent.
But physical maturity and long-term athletic development are not the same thing.
The player who struggles early often builds something more important.
Resilience.
Work ethic.
Patience.
Confidence through effort.
These qualities become powerful later.
Then something interesting happens.
As their body develops, their physical ability begins to match their passion for the game.
Movement becomes easier.
Confidence increases.
Performance improves.
This is why the athletes who stay consistent, even when they feel “behind”, often improve the most over time.
Development is not a race.
And youth basketball is not about who is best at 10, it’s about who keeps growing.