B.C.
First of all if the child is in her first year of playing basketball in middle school she will have to realize that she is an underclassman and has to earn her postion with confidence and drive. If the potential is there as you say it is the only way she can play more is to show the coaches she can. Don't blame the coaches for not playing her if she is not applying herself. She has to realize she cannot start with a team and expect to play the entire game. Many children sit the bench and are happy to get the 2 minute playing time and I call that drive and confidence but most of all commitment to the team. I always told my children if they started something they had to finish it and I personally would make her continue with the team she committed to. She has to learn she cannot be the "star" without paying her dues and committing. These are just my takes on this and I hope it helps.