The cost, time and access to learning a sport can all be detriments for young people.
One former Bay area athlete wants to help children improve their basketball skills and gives his time and energy to make the game accessible and fun.
Former college player Dan White runs the BCB Academy, a program that provides lessons, training and a place to play for young hoop dreamers.
White also holds free events and clinics for young players at Bay area Boys and Girls clubs, the YMCA and open gym nights at the Wesley Memorial Church's gym on Monday nights.
"Anybody is the community is welcome to play," White said of his open gym night. "It's a safe place to play for the kids. I wanted to help provide an avenue so kids didn't have to worry about going to a park, getting into trouble, getting into fights. This is a safe place where they can just come and play basketball."
White played point guard at Salem State College and led his team to a Division III Final Four berth in 2001. He also played professionally in Mexico. The NBA wasn't meant to be but basketball continues to be a huge part of his life.
Wesley pastor Clark Edwards knows White and says he has a gift.
"He can connect with young people," Edwards said of White. "The kids love him and I've seen him work with them. He can get the second and third mile out of them."
Edwards said he just wants the kids he works with to be the best person they can be, regardless of sports.
"I just want to reach a young man or young woman and want to show them the ropes," White said. "I want to see them be successful."