Generally speaking, house league is true recreational team play. A volunteer coach, usually one of the players parents will teach some basic skills and basic plays to a team of players assigned to a team. There are usually 8-10 teams from a local area that compete on Saturdays at the same gym. Many house leagues provide team jerseys and an introductory level basketball as part of the price. It's a great learning experience, excellent exercise, and usually a lot of fun!
Rep basketball is generally played at a higher skill level with more competitions. Rep teams generally compete in leagues, like OBL, CYBL or Signature here in Toronto, and the teams are placed in ranked divisions so that teams of similar skills are competing against one another. Rep programs tend to be more expensive, having the additional expenses of full home and away uniforms, team bags and in many cases, travel. Coaches typically have far more experience than House League coaches, but not always. The frequency and intensity of training is usually greater than house league, but not always.
Choosing what's right for a player is really specific to that person. I'm a big believer in starting in house league or skills training. If they are enjoying it, and they're playing well, there's a good chance the coach will recommend they try out for a rep team. In some cases, in advancing too soon, the intensity of rep basketball will put a player off the game before giving them a chance to really develop the fundamental set of skills needed to continue at a higher level of play.
One of my sons stuck with House League for the majority of his time, refusing to try out for rep teams because he just wanted to play with his friends, but in a gym, and with referees. Set schedule, same location, easy and fun.
My other son played Division 1 Basketball last year after playing Division 4 and 7 in previous years. He signs up for summer skills training. Asks for fall training. Watches tips and training videos on youtube. Does drills at home without being asked.
Two completely different approaches to the game, and both are worth the time and effort because it connects them with something healthy that they love - the way they love it.
Again, my recommendation is to join house league to start. Take some basketball skills training if your player is interested, and if it looks like they will commit to it. Then look at opportunities with a rep team.
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