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Pitino: Parents, Not AAU, Hinder Basketball Development

3/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

Rick Pitino, head coach of St. John's, argues that parents, not the AAU system, are the main issue in American basketball development.
He says parents are overly involved in their children's careers, hindering growth.
The discussion follows Kevin Durant, NBA star, on differences in U.S. and European development, signaling a shift.
Kobe Bryant, basketball legend, noted that European players focus on skill and IQ, while American training emphasizes athleticism.

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Story summary

Rick Pitino, head coach of St. John's, argues that parents, not the AAU system, are the main issue in American basketball development.
He says parents are overly involved in their children's careers, hindering growth.
The discussion follows Kevin Durant, NBA star, on differences in U.S. and European development, signaling a shift.
Kobe Bryant, basketball legend, noted that European players focus on skill and IQ, while American training emphasizes athleticism.