Donald and JB: Changes in AAU culture, NBA playoffs, and more

In this podcast episode, we learn about the Watts basketball program, founded by former Husky basketball legend Donald Watts. The program focuses on developing kids' basketball skills and character, with a priority on confidence, enjoyment, and personal growth. The program offers summer camps and year-round academy programs for children starting from the third grade, with a maximum enrollment of 16 kids per group. The program helps families navigate the challenges of basketball and use them as opportunities to develop resilience and character. Donald Watts emphasizes that basketball skills, such as a good jump shot, ball handling, and the ability to see the court, can open doors for players and help them get into top schools. He also discusses the changes he's seen in the AAU culture over the past 25 to 30 years, with more tournaments and teams and people making a living off of AAU. Donald stresses that parents need to be realistic about their expectations and understand what they're signing their kids up for. A parent talks about their desire for their son to develop a love and passion for basketball and eventually pay for his college education through the sport. They discuss the challenges of being a parent in the world of youth sports, especially the AAU culture, which has become lucrative and led to controversies around payments to players. They are part of a Game Changers for Life movement to revolutionize the youth sports model, encouraging children to enjoy a variety of sports and activities. Donald also discusses the Watts Basketball Academy, which provides high-level coaching in youth basketball from him and his staff. The academy teaches players the habits and routines of all-time greats and encourages them to strive for personal excellence and engage in the support of a community of higher achievers. Overall, this podcast episode provides a diverse range of perspectives on basketball, youth sports, and the NBA. It highlights the importance of character development, personal growth, and realistic expectations in youth sports and encourages players, parents, and coaches to strive for excellence while respecting the values of family and community. Subscribe to College Prospects now! Links you may want to check out:  Check out and support by donating to The Watts Foundation at https://thewattsfoundation.org/ Check out everything about Watts Basketball at https://wattsbasketball.com/ Directly talk or ask Donald a question by calling (206) 467-1383 Leave Donald a question or send a message through his socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donaldwatts24 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wattsbball     Twitter: https://twitter.com/donaldwatts24 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donald-watts If you want to know more about Watts Basketball, give us a like or follow on your fav social platform: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wattsbball/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/WattsBBall Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wattsbball/ Subscribe to this podcast and automatically receive your episodes!