youth
basketball
programs
A pathway for boys and girls in grades K–12 to grow, compete, and succeed.
Not sure where your child fits in basketball?
You’re not alone. Many parents wonder if their son or daughter should start with training, join a team, or try a league. At Livin’ the Dream, we believe every athlete deserves the right program for their stage of development. That’s why we begin with an evaluation — a simple way to understand your child’s current skills and experience. From there, we place them in training and on a team that fits their level, so they can grow with confidence. Our focus goes beyond basketball skills — we build character, teamwork, and a love for the game that lasts a lifetime.
A clear pathway for growth
Every player’s journey is different, but no one should have to figure it out alone. At Livin’ the Dream, evaluations help us place athletes in the training and teams that fit their skills and experience. From there, they move through a proven pathway that builds confidence, skills, and character — step by step.
TiER 1: Building Fundamentals
Accessible to all skill levels. Focused on growth, fundamentals, and overall basketball development.
No evaluation required — start anytime.
Supplemental Programs:
TIER 2: League & Tournament Introduction
For athletes progressing beyond recreational play. Includes local league competition combined with minimal (or some) exposure to tournament play
Process: Evaluation required for team placement.
Evaluations offered in October for Winter (Nov-late Feb) / March for SPRING/SUMMER (end of March-end of July)
Supplemental Programs:
TIER 1: Competitive Local Tournament Play
Designed for mid-to-advanced athletes competing in local tournaments.
Process: Evaluation required for placement.
Evals offered in August for Fall season (August-end of October) *7th-12th Grades only* / October for Winter (Nov-late Feb) / March for SPRING/SUMMER (end of March-end of July)
Supplemental Programs:
TIER 4: LTD Select
High-profile exposure tournament competition for Boys ages 13-18. Travel involved. Start with Evals and then require an invite to try out.
Process: Evaluation → Invitation-only tryout.
Invite only tryouts in March for SPRING/SUMMER season (end of March- end of July)
Dream League
Private & Group Lessons
Strength & Conditioning
College Showcase
Supplemental Programs:
Let’s find your fit
At Livin’ the Dream, we know that exploring basketball opportunities can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure which program, league, or training path is the right fit. Whether you’re a parent looking for a supportive place for your child to grow or an adult ready to keep developing your game, we’re here to help.
Our team takes the time to learn about your goals, experience, and interests so we can guide you toward options that make sense for you. From skills development and leagues to personal training and camps, we’ll help you find the program that fits your unique journey.
Ready to start the conversation? Please complete the form below, and we will contact you personally to explore what’s possible.
We can’t wait to help you take the next step in your basketball story.
BASKETBALL TEAMS FOR BOTH BOYS & GIRLS
Have dreams of playing in high school, college, or even one day in the NBA or representing our country in the Olympics? At Livin’ the Dream, our youth basketball teams give boys and girls in grades 3–12 the opportunity to develop their skills, compete, and fall in love with the game. More than just basketball, our programs build teamwork, discipline, and character — preparing athletes to succeed both on and off the court.
We offer two levels of youth basketball teams to meet players where they are in their journey:
LTD League Teams – Designed for athletes who are newer to competitive basketball and ready to move beyond recreational play. These teams compete in local leagues and a small number of tournaments. Players gain valuable game experience while building confidence and strengthening their fundamentals.
LTD Tournament Teams – Built for more experienced athletes, these teams compete in higher-level local tournaments across the Kansas City metro. Players face stronger competition, sharpen their basketball IQ, and prepare for advanced play.
All athletes begin with an evaluation, which allows us to place each player on a team that best matches their skill and experience level. With boys’ and girls’ teams available from 3rd grade through high school, every athlete has a clear place to grow, compete, and chase their basketball dreams.
YOUTH BASKETBALL LEAGUES
At Livin’ the Dream, our leagues provide athletes with the chance to play regularly, build confidence, and make lasting friendships while enjoying the game in a supportive environment. Unlike our LTD teams, leagues and events do not require an evaluation — they’re open to boys and girls of all skill levels, as well as outside teams and athletes.
We currently offer several exciting league opportunities:
3v3 League – Fast-paced and high-energy, our modified full-court format gives players more touches on the ball, helping them sharpen fundamentals like ball handling, decision-making, and teamwork.
Dream League – High-profile Competitive Summer League for High School Boys, as well as Male & Female College/ Professional athletes.
LTD Tournament Series – Competitive tournament events hosted by Livin’ the Dream, where teams from all over the Kansas City metro compete.
At LTD, our focus goes beyond wins and losses. Every league and event emphasizes personal growth, teamwork, and character development, so every player thrives both on and off the court.
PRIVATE & GROUP BASKETBALL LESSONS
Livin' The Dream offers private and small group basketball training to help players improve their skills. Each athlete gets instruction and training techniques from professional coaches. This helps them gain an edge over their competition. Our main goal is to help each athlete build self-confidence and use new skills in their school or team sports.
Training is available at different times throughout the week for boys and girls ages 8-18. Each lesson is one hour long. Contact us to schedule an appointment.
FAQ
-
LTD offers basketball programs for every age and skill level — men, women, boys, and girls. Our youngest athletes, from Kindergarten through 2nd grade, can join fun camps and clinics to learn the game. Starting in 3rd grade, we provide year-round programs, leagues, and training designed to help every player grow and thrive, whether they’re just getting started or competing at a high level.
-
No. LTD provides competitive programming opportunities for players of all levels, from beginners to advanced athletes. After a skills evaluation, athletes are placed on a team or other LTD program to best support their development.
-
LTD serves youth across Olathe, Lenexa, Overland Park, Gardner, Shawnee, and surrounding Johnson County areas — although athletes from around the KC Metro participate. Training and games are held at the LTD Training Center and other local gyms.
-
Rather than traditional tryouts, LTD uses regular player evaluations to place athletes on the right team. This helps focus on growth and development over competition alone.
-
LTD is a faith-based, character-driven program. We develop players holistically—on and off the court—fostering confidence, teamwork, and spiritual growth.
THE LTD DIFFERENCE
Thousands of youth and adult players, coaches, officials, and fans have been impacted by Livin the Dream programs, camps, and international experiences. From competing against professional teams in seven countries to building top youth leagues here at home, LTD has consistently delivered excellence in basketball development.
But what truly sets us apart is what happens after our players leave the court. Many LTD athletes have gone on to play at the next level—this year alone, five of our players earned opportunities to play college basketball. Over the years, we’ve built strong relationships with college coaches who know our reputation: LTD produces players who bring more than skills. They bring mental toughness, character, and integrity—qualities coaches are looking for at the next level.
Our alumni are proof that this works. Many return after their college or professional careers to coach with LTD, pouring back into the next generation. That cycle of mentorship shows the strength of the foundation we’ve built.
We don’t do flashy showcases where players get lost in the hype. Instead, we provide personal connections, honest guidance, and a pathway for real growth. Our quarter-century of experience and our foundation in faith make LTD different from programs that only focus on wins or exposure. We believe every athlete has a God-given dream, and through basketball, we help them discover their potential—both in the game and in life.
