Already one of the biggest names not only in the NBA but youth basketball with Jason Kidd Select, Jason Kidd has begun to put an imprint on the baseball world with the Kidd name.
The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer began Jason Kidd Select Baseball earlier this year and the organization is already bringing in and helping to develop some of the best young players in the country.
USA Baseball recently published an article spotlighting Kidd and the Jason Kidd Foundation.
“We’re very happy to jump into baseball. Being able to help our youth not just with their skill set, but being able to talk about leadership, discipline and respect.”
Jason Kidd, to USA Baseball
Kidd Select was established in 2021 with an initial focus on training and women’s basketball development and has quickly become a powerhouse in girls hoops. So when Jason got some exposure to the youth baseball world, he saw the same opportunity.
He pitched the idea of expanding into youth baseball to some friends, and decided to bring in JK Select 15U coach Mike Phelps to help turn his vision into a reality.
While other programs put an emphasis on winning above all else, Jason believes that mentality is a little backwards in a way that puts undue pressure on the players.
“We’re not looking to win championships. We’re learning to develop and put these young men in the right position to be successful.”
Jason Kidd
Jason and Kidd Select Baseball aren’t chasing championships and glory instantly. What he wants to focus on early on is growth, learning, and putting young men in positions to succeed.
That emphasis on development, Jason believes, will breed success and win games — while still putting the players and their goals above all else.
Ultimately, the goal of Kidd Select is to make an impact on youth athletes across the country, no matter the sport.
“We want to develop the next leaders of our country. Someone could be a president. Someone could be a lawyer. And someone might make it to the Show. So hopefully we can play a part in that.”
Jason Kidd