The episode follows two parallel storylines as the main characters face rejection and the reality of being "small fish in a big pond" at Cheevers High:
: This was the second basketball-themed episode of the series, following "Kisses and Basketball". BenchwarmersThe Suite Life of Zack and Cody : S...
: Appearances by Sophie Oda (Barbara), Giovonnie Samuels (Nia), and Kaycee Stroh (Leslie). The episode follows two parallel storylines as the
: Guest starred as the "in-your-face" Coach Little. : "Benchwarmers" marked the final appearances for Nia,
: "Benchwarmers" marked the final appearances for Nia, Haley, and the Rosso twins (Jessica and Janice) in the original series, though many returned for the spin-off, The Suite Life on Deck .
The standard main cast is joined by several recurring and guest performers:
: Played the pompous head cheerleader Dana. Interestingly, her character shares many traits with Trina Vega, whom she later played on Nickelodeon's Victorious .