Beyond The Court: An Honest Conversation on Basketball and our Youth Today

Join Basketball Hall of Famer Dennis Page, CEO and Founder of SLAM Magazine, Jesse Winter, CEO of Level Up LI, Arjay Perovic, Co-Founder of The City, and other leaders in youth basketball for an honest and timely conversation about the future of the game and its impact on our young people.

Basketball is more than a sport, it’s culture, opportunity, and for many young people, a dream. But the landscape of youth basketball has changed dramatically over the past 15–20 years. With the rise of AAU programs, travel teams, and year-round competition, families, coaches, and communities are navigating new opportunities—along with new challenges.

This event combines curated film clips and a panel discussion with coaches, parents, educators, and community leaders to explore some of the most important questions facing youth basketball today.

The state of youth basketball today
How the game has evolved over the last two decades—highlighting both the opportunities and the concerns.

AAU vs. high school basketball
Where each fits in a young athlete’s development and the trade-offs families should consider.

Opportunity vs. business
Is youth basketball primarily a pathway to education and personal growth—or has it become a commercial enterprise?

Preparing the next generation
How parents, coaches, and communities can help young athletes build skill, character, and resilience.

Choosing the right program
What families should look for in an AAU, travel, or school basketball program—from player development to mentorship and culture.

This is not just a conversation about the game—it’s about supporting our youth on and off the court and ensuring sports remain a positive, empowering experience.

• Parents of youth and student-athletes
• Youth basketball and AAU players
• Coaches and trainers
• Educators and mentors
• Community advocates

Anyone who cares about the future of youth sports and the role basketball plays in shaping young lives is encouraged to attend.

🎥 Curated film clips highlighting key moments and trends in youth basketball
🎤 A panel discussion unpacking key themes, challenges, and opportunities
💬 A community dialogue with practical insights and takeaways for families and programs

🎟 Reserve your spot now — seating is limited.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher Hebrew Educational Society Of Brooklyn