Why Your Child Isn’t Playing (And What Parents Get Wrong)

Why Your Child Isn’t Playing (And What Parents Get Wrong)

From Its Just Different Podcast by Ashley Roberts

March 24, 2026 · 23 min

About this episode

Ashley Roberts discusses the realities of playing time and expectations in AAU basketball for young athletes and their parents.

AAU basketball season is here — and if you think playing time is guaranteed, you’re already setting your athlete up for frustration.In this solo episode, Ashley Roberts breaks down the reality most families don’t want to hear: minutes are earned, not given. From team selection to sideline behavior, this episode challenges the expectations that are hurting athlete development and confidence.If you’re blaming the coach every time your athlete doesn’t play, you might be missing the bigger picture.In this episode, you’ll learn:- Why playing time in AAU must be earned — not expected- How development goes beyond stats like points and minutes- The real impact of parent behavior on athlete confidence- How emotional reactions can hurt long-term growth- When to stay the course vs. when to consider a team change- How to approach AAU with a long-term development mindsetThis is about perspective, accountability, and helping your athlete grow the right way — on and off the court. About the Host Ashley Roberts is the host of the It’s Just Different Podcast and a former junior college basketball player who transferred to the University of Texas. As a basketball consultant, speaker, and founder…

People in this episode

Host: Ashley Roberts

Topics covered

  • AAU basketball
  • playing time
  • athlete development
  • parent behavior
  • team selection
  • long-term growth

Keywords

  • AAU basketball
  • playing time
  • athlete development
  • parent behavior
  • team selection
  • confidence
  • long-term growth

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: University of Texas, Different Community

More episodes of Its Just Different Podcast

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Its Just Different Podcast podcast page.