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
Players and families join a youth basketball program for ages 2–14, built on accountability, effort, and pride — where every detail on and off the court supports a long-term athletic journey from the very first step.
State-of-the-Art Facilites
Train in our world-class, air-conditioned Field House with Maplewood basketball courts designed to maximize player development.
Proven Coaches
Our dedicated coaching staff combines years of experience at the youth, high school, and collegiate levels. We don’t just prepare athletes for games — we prepare them for the next step in their basketball journey, whatever that may be.
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
The Chelsea Piers Basketball Development Program is our all-levels development program for players ages 2 through 12. It is made up of seven classes, each one built for a specific age group, that teach basketball skills progressively. Game play is introduced and built upon as players grow and develop. Every class is professionally coached by trained staff who understand how players develop at every stage.
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.