---

The following joint statement from NBA Commissioner David Stern and NCAA President Myles Brand was sent out by the NCAA today:

“Today, key stakeholders in the sport of basketball, including leadership of the NBA and NCAA, met to discuss ways to address issues facing basketball, particularly at the youth level. Participating in discussions with us were representatives of USA Basketball, the Amateur Athletic Union, the National Federation of State High School Associations, the National Association of Basketball Coaches and athletics apparel companies adidas/Reebok and Nike.

“Today’s meeting was a continuation of a series of discussions that have taken place over the last year. We identified a number of areas of common interest and have formed a working group that will study these issues in greater detail. We are exploring options for a broad-based inclusive structure to address the identified needs of youth basketball. The group will report back early next year with recommendations and next steps.

“The group was unanimous in its view that we focus not only on basketball skill development, but also on the social and educational development of youth basketball players throughout the United States.”