We see it all the time in sports across the world, but nothing is more important when it comes to a basketball team’s success than the chemistry between the coaches and players. Without this connection, it won’t matter how much talent you have on your team — you’ll always struggle to figure out a way to play together.
Team chemistry can be built in a variety of ways, but the benefits are always the same. A team that knows, trusts, and appreciates the other players on the team and what they bring to the table will always have an advantage over a team that doesn’t.
While a basketball coach or parent can’t do much to force relationships to happen on or off the court, they can certainly inspire a connection through the use of team-building activities. These are always a great way to bring any team together because they don’t have to involve basketball. It can involve anything really, whether it’s something they enjoy or not.
They can also be activities that the team captains can supervise. Without having the coaches or parents present (at least directly), it’ll allow the kids to form those relationships on their own. They won’t feel the pressure from older adults.
Here are some of our favorite team-building activities you can start organizing for your basketball team today!
Team Dinner
Let’s be honest here, children love food — especially after a long basketball practice or tough basketball game. This is a team-building activity that everyone will enjoy, especially once the food gets brought out.
It doesn’t even necessarily have to be a dinner, it could be ice cream or another snack. Anything that will promote having the kids all sit down together and socialize is a good activity to set up. There’s a reason the professionals do this throughout the season constantly.
Charity Events
It doesn’t matter what personality you have, what you believe in, or what your hobbies are, charity events are designed to bring people together. Having your team volunteer for a nearby charity, shelter, or community service event will remind your team that it’s always bigger than basketball.
When your players start to learn the importance of helping others and giving their time to those that need it, it’ll make them appreciate the time they get to play basketball together. It’s important they keep everything in perspective throughout the season.
Fun Activities
Charities and dinners are our two favorite team-building activities, but there are plenty of others you can choose from. Taking them out to a place like Dave & Buster’s, bowling alley, laser tag, go-kart, escape room, and mini-golf course are sure to promote fun in the group.
You can also take them to a college or professional sports game so they can get up close to the professionals and watch the game they love. Other activities might include a spin class, cooking class, or another class that will bring the team together while putting differences aside.
The most important thing when trying to implement team-building activities into your seasonal routine is to show the kids that they can have fun off the court. Before you know it, that team chemistry will start to show itself on the court and they will really start to play their best together.
