National Women's Evaluator Jason Key: Do Ranking Really Matter #12

About The Guest(s): Jason Key is a basketball expert and content provider for ESPN. He has been involved in the basketball industry for over 15 years and is a member of the McDonald's All-American Selection Committee. Jason is passionate about helping players and coaches find the right fit for them. Summary: Jason Key discusses the changes in youth basketball over the years, including the increased involvement of shoe companies and the limitations on the live period. He emphasizes the importance of player development and finding the right fit for each player. Jason also talks about his role as a content provider for ESPN, ranking players and teams, and the challenges of the current AAU calendar. He highlights the positive aspects of AAU, such as the camaraderie and competition among the kids, and the community that comes together to support youth basketball. Key Takeaways: The youth basketball landscape has changed with the increased involvement of shoe companies and limitations on the live period. Player development and finding the right fit are crucial for success in basketball. The AAU calendar has its challenges, but it provides an opportunity for kids to compete and build camaraderie. The basketball community is filled with good people who are passionate about the sport and helping young athletes. Quotes: "If your daughter is not enjoying it and not getting better, you're not in the right place." - Jason Key "Happiness is foremost because if the kid's not happy, you're doing this for nothing." - Jason Key "Development is number one for me. I lean towards that training, whether that be with somebody else or yourself." - Jason Key "We get caught in our own messes sometimes and being competitive and fighting, but everybody's pushing in the same direction." - Jason Key "There's so much good and positivity I want people to take. We've talked about the 2% mess. I want people to make sure they understand that it's 98% good." - Jason Key "Competitiveness is the trait every kid in the top ten must possess. It's what leads to success." - Jason Key "High school coaching is special because of the community. It brings people together and creates a sense of unity." - Jason Key "Stay positive with your posts, with your thoughts, all of it. Stay positive." - Jason Key