by Charles Ripp (Author)
Basketball is competitive fun, athleticism, staying-in-shape and enhances all faculties of living (sleep, education, interpersonal relationships, dealing with defeat and team socialization). Playing basketball has a strong statistical association with stronger marriages, finances and overall life satisfaction indices. There are issues at all levels of basketball. The biggest hurdle is only 5 players on the court at any given moment from a single team. This is addressed strongly in many chapters; and overcome by coaching ground rules regarding players experiencing a true basketball adventure. As coach, I reminded players and families that I'd rather be a 7th man on a competitive hoop team playing 6- 7 days/week, working on my game and alternatively not "hanging" in a mall or basement. Many 7th men on teams played in college and professional ranks. Seventh man is motivation to improve and obtain playing time.