Chelsea Piers Development Basketball
Chelsea Piers Development Basketball is where it all begins. Before the teams, before the tryouts, before the competition — this is the program that introduces young players to the game of basketball in the right way. Fun, welcoming and built for every child regardless of experience or ability, Chelsea Piers Development Basketball creates an environment where kids fall in love with the game, build confidence and discover what they are capable of.
Benefits of joining our Basketball program
A True Basketball Home
Play, discover, learn, evolve
Buddy & Me Dribblers (Ages 2-3) · Mini Dribblers (Ages 3-4)
Where the journey begins. Basketball at this stage is about movement, exploration and fun. Introducing the basics of the game in a low pressure, high energy environment — no experience necessary, no pressure, just the joy of discovering the game for the very first time. The earlier they start the more natural it becomes — and the more they love it.
Little Dribblers (Ages 4-5) · Young Ballers (Ages 5-6)
Players start discovering what they can do with a basketball. Dribbling, passing, shooting and basic movement introduced in a fun structured environment. Every session feels like play. Every session is building something real. This is where kids fall in love with the game — and where the foundation is quietly being built.
Junior Ballers (Ages 6-7) · CP Playmakers (Ages 8-11)
Fundamentals become structured and skills are introduced with purpose. Players begin to understand the game beyond just movement — building consistency, focus and a real basketball vocabulary. This is where serious development quietly begins. Players at this stage are building the habits and skills that will carry them through every level of the game.
CP Playmakers (Ages 10-12)
The most advanced level of Chelsea Piers Development Basketball — ability based, not just age or grade. Skills are more advanced, the pace is faster and the standard is higher. Players here are approaching competitive basketball as their next step and everything in this class is preparing them for exactly that. This is where development gets serious — and where the next chapter begins to take shape.
Basketball Classes FAQs
At Chelsea Piers, kids can start basketball as young as 2 years old with our Buddy & Me class, a caregiver-accompanied program that introduces toddlers to the joy of basketball through playful activities and teamwork. From there, children can progress through Mini-Dribblers, Little Dribblers, Young Ballers, and beyond as they grow and develop their game.
Evolution Academy, Pre-Competitive Team FAQs
Evolution Academy is the official pre-team program for Chelsea Piers Evolution — one of New York City’s most respected travel and AAU basketball programs. Invitation only, Kindergarten through 2nd grade, and built for one destination — an Evolution team.