About URA Basketball
URA Basketball is a recreational program open to all boys and girls in grades K-12. Our focus is on fun, skill development, and teamwork—everyone makes a team, and no one gets cut!
Season & Schedule
Registration typically opens in August, with the season kicking off in late November, right after Thanksgiving. Games begin the first weekend after Thanksgiving and run through mid-March, weather permitting. We observe all school holidays and breaks.
Teams are organized by school grade in the fall, with a commitment of one game per week and one practice per week.
Divisions & Game Structure
Dependent on registration numbers, we typically have the following divisions.
- Co-Ed K, Pre-1st, 1st – Games on Saturdays only, no weekday commitment
- Boys 2-3 & Girls 2-3 – Games on Saturdays, 1 practice per week
- Boys 4-5 & Girls 4-5 – Games on Saturdays, 1 practice per week
- Boys 6-7 & Girls 6-7 – Games on Saturdays, 1 practice per week
- Boys 8-9 & Girls 8-12 – Games on Sundays, 1 practice per week
- Boys 10-12 – Games on Sundays, no practices
Referees & Game Development
Our youngest divisions (Co-Ed and 2nd-3rd grade) are officiated by trained youth referees who focus on both calling the game and helping players understand the rules. Older divisions are officiated by PIAA-certified referees—the same officials who oversee high school and college games.
Playing Time
At URA Basketball, we are committed to ensuring equal playing time for all players. To support this, each division follows specific substitution guidelines to promote fairness and player development.
Substitution Rules
- Minimum Playing Time – Each player must play at least two (2) full quarters (or the time equivalent).
- Required Rest – Each player must sit out at least one (1) full quarter (unless the team has six or fewer players).
- No Full-Game Players – No player should play all four quarters (in part or in whole) until everyone has played at least three full quarters—unless injuries require otherwise.
- Time Equivalents – If a quarter is 10 minutes long, each player must play at least 20 total minutes.
Playing Time Scenarios
To clarify how playing time is distributed, here’s a guide based on the number of players available for a game:
- 6 players → All players must play at least 3 full quarters, with only one player sitting out per quarter.
- 7 players → 6 players will play 3 quarters, and 1 player will play 2 quarters.
- 8 players → 5 players will play 3 quarters, and 3 players will play 2 quarters.
- 9 players → 4 players will play 3 quarters, and 5 players will play 2 quarters.
- 10 players → Every player will play exactly 2 quarters.
Important Note: Teams are limited to a maximum of 10 players per game. We strive to create rosters that ensure ample substitutes while maximizing playing time for everyone.
By enforcing these guidelines, we ensure that all players gain valuable experience, grow their skills, and enjoy their time on the court.