The aim of this study was to examine adaptive behaviors in teaching formative basketball players with regard to their motivations to play. Hence, 284 federative basketball players, ranging in age from 11 to 16 years old from the Region of Extremadura took part in the study. Descriptive analysis, correlation analysis and lineal regression analysis were conducted with SPSS 19.0 statistical program. Results showed that more self-determined players had greater adaptive conducts, such as respect to rules and opponents. Finally, it is noteworthy to provide intrinsic regulations in youth basketball players to create a good learning and promotes social values.