Basketball that teaches more than basketball.
We believe youth basketball can make a difference in kids' lives that goes beyond the court. Every Saturday shows players, first hand, how effort and consistency add up to real improvement.
What PBS is
Philadelphia Basketball School is a Saturday morning basketball program for players ages 6 and up, held at AFC Fitness in Bala Cynwyd, PA. Players are grouped by age, with an advanced group for experienced 10 to 13 year olds and players 14 and up. Beginners and team players train side by side in their group.
Every Saturday has the same shape: deliberate drills around the day's focus, a weekly competition, and a short conversation about mindset. The point is for players to see, first hand, that effort and consistency add up.
Who runs it
Program Directors Ben Daugherty and Zac Ervin both played Division I basketball at Elon University. The coaching staff are former college players and coaches; meet the coaches. Philadelphia Basketball School is operated by Play It Forward Sports.
“PBS exists to show kids how consistent effort can compound into big results, in basketball and in life.”
Coach Ben Daugherty, Program Director
How to start
Book the $15 first Saturday, come to your player's group time, and decide afterward. See the schedule or how membership works.
Where we play
AFC Fitness
601 Righters Ferry Rd
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
Right across the bridge from Manayunk.
Saturdays, 8 to 11am
Ages 6 to 9 at 8am. Ages 10 to 13 at 9am. Advanced 10 to 13 and 14+ at 10am.
Full scheduleThe same six things, every Saturday.
Every clinic is built from the same six parts, so players know what to expect and can see their own progress from one week to the next.
How a PBS Saturday runs.
Six things you'll see every weekDeliberate drills
Every drill follows the day's focus, a specific part of the game taught from the ground up.
No wasted time
We keep things moving and get the most out of every session.
Competitive fun
A weekly competition, and a mini-league that lasts the whole season.
Mindset
Mental fitness, focus, and what it means to be a good teammate.
Community
An inclusive place where players make friends and feel welcome.
Every level
Grouped by age, with an advanced group for experienced players. First-timers and team players both get work.
- Consistent effort compounds.
- Embrace challenges.
- We over me.
- Enjoy the process.
My 11 year old son was brand new to the game, and Ben and his coaches helped transform him from a kid who was afraid to get the ball or take a shot, into a confident player who understood the game.
Mike Tether, PBS parent
"He learned new skills and gained confidence in himself. The coaches are talented, not just with basketball but with engaging the players and keeping them motivated."Bo Brewer, PBS parent
"The coaches really taught the kids new skills, and team play and tactics. They were fun and kind, but also strict and it helped the kids stay focused."Mary Ann Radisek, parent
See you Saturday morning.
Your first clinic is $15. Groups start at 8, 9 and 10am.