Basketball is an amazing sport for kids of all ages in San Luis Obispo. According to the Journal of Sports Medicine, basketball develops fundamental movement skills: speed, agility, strength, power, endurance, flexibility, and motor coordination. It’s also a fun way to make new friends! Here are the best leagues and club programs for youth basketball on the Central Coast.
Youth Rec Leagues | Club Programs | Local Basketball Games
Recreational Basketball Leagues for Kids in SLO
YMCA
The YMCA basketball program is wonderful for beginners and experienced players. Registration includes nine weeks of practice, eight Saturday games, a jersey, and a participation medal. They welcome volunteer coaches, scorekeepers, and referees.
- When:
- Practice and games from January to March
- Registration in the fall
- Where: San Luis Obispo elementary school gyms
- Grades: Kindergarten through 8
- Learn more: YMCA Website
Five Cities Youth Basketball
If you live in South San Luis Obispo County, the Five Cities Youth Basketball League is an excellent program for elementary and middle school kids. First and second graders play games on Saturdays. Third through eighth graders play one or two games each week, usually on weeknights.
- When:
- Practice and games from November to February
- Registration in the fall
- Where:
- Practice: Local Arroyo Grande Schools
- Games:
- 1st and 2nd grade: Pacific View Academy, Mesa Middle School
- 3rd through 8th grade: Oceano Community Center, LifePoint Church, Paulding Middle School, Judkins Middle School, St. Patrick Catholic School
- Grades: 1 through 8
- Learn more: 5 Cities Youth Basketball Website
Club Basketball for Kids and Teens in SLO
3Ball Basketball Academy
Led by Cal Poly basketball alumni Coach Wozniak, 3Ball Academy provides weekly skills and drills clinics for kids passionate about the sport. Their travel teams also help players develop their physical and teamwork skills.
- When: Year-round
- Grades: Kindergarten through 12
- Where: Mission High School gym or Kennedy Club in San Luis Obispo
- Learn more: 3Ball website or email Coach Wozniak
Next Level 805 Basketball Club
This popular program offers group basketball practice, private coaching, and competitive travel club teams. Practice sessions begin with warm-ups followed by drills based on skill level.
- When: Year-round
- Where: Grace Bible Church Gymnasium
- Grades: Kindergarten through 12
- Learn more: Next Level 805 website
Central Coast Magic Basketball
This club offers basketball workouts in groups, 1:1 private training sessions, as well as the opportunity to compete in local and travel tournaments.
- When: Year-round
- Where: Paulding Middle School
- Grades: 4 through 9
- Learn more: Central Coast Magic website
805 Mustangs Basketball Club
805 Mustangs is a well-run program with group basketball practice and individual lessons on a month-to-month commitment. Dedicated basketball players can also try out for the 805 Mustangs travel team.
- When: Year-round
- Where: Pacific View Academy
- Grades: Kindergarten to 12
- Learn more: 805 Mustangs website
Basketball Games to Watch in San Luis Obispo
Cal Poly Men’s and Women’s Basketball Games
Families can have fun watching and cheering for Cal Poy’s Division 1 basketball teams from November to March. Children in 8th grade and under can join the Cal Poly Mustang Kids Club for free tickets to all women’s basketball games and certain home games for men’s basketball games.
High School Basketball Games in San Luis Obispo
Support your local high school while having fun watching basketball! Check your local high school website for updated schedules during the fall and winter.



