As a parent or coach of a young basketball player, you may find yourself faced with the challenge of preparing your child or team for a late day basketball game. These games can be tough on young athletes, as they disrupt their normal routines and can cause fatigue and low energy levels. However, with the right preparation, you can help your child or team perform their best and enjoy the game. Here are 5 tips I’ve shared with my basketball teams on how to prepare for late day basketball games:

1. Adjust meal times: If the game is later in the evening, you may need to adjust meal times to ensure that your child or team has enough energy to perform well. Have a light and nutritious meal around 3-4 hours before the game, and provide healthy snacks, such as fruit or energy bars, 30-60 minutes before the game.
2. Hydration: Encourage your child or team to drink plenty of water throughout the day leading up to the game. Dehydration can lead to fatigue and decreased performance, so it’s important to stay hydrated.
3. Rest: Ensure that your child or team gets enough rest leading up to the game. Try to maintain their normal sleep schedule, and avoid scheduling any strenuous activities on the day of the game. Encourage them to take a nap in the afternoon if possible.
4. Warm-up: Before the game, make sure your child or team has a proper warm-up session to get their blood flowing and prevent injuries. This can include stretching, light jogging, and practicing basketball skills.
5. Mental preparation: Talk to your child or team about the game and help them get mentally prepared. Encourage positive thinking and remind them of their strengths and skills. Visualize a successful game and discuss strategies for handling different scenarios.

By following these tips, you can help prepare youth for a late day basketball game and ensure that they perform their best. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the game!”