Recruitment Advice 101:  How to get recruited to college basketball teams

How to get recruited to college basketball teams

In discussion with various college coaches on the Division 1, Division 2, and Division 3 NCAA level, there are a couple of things they want to see during their recruitment process.  These aren't 100% definitive, but they're definitely what direct responses from college coaches.  

Elevator Pitch

The coaches have presented Rising Stars Basketball with a script they recommend to use as a means to introduce yourself to college coaches.  

Hi Coach!  My name is __________________ I'm a _____ graduate and play for ___________ in _______ I'm interesting in finding a school that provides ________________________ in the game and _______________ in the classroom.  My showcase/elite/prospect number is _______________
My fun fact is _____________
What do you look for in a college level athlete?
I look forward to showcasing my skill to you!

Body Language

College coaches share the same expectations... they look for athletes who:

• Stand Tall:  head high, shoulders square, chest out and feet balances
• Firm Handshake:  Set the tone by starting and the conversation with a firm handshake
• Make Eye Contact:  Force attention, tell the listener something important to say
• Speak Clearly:  Know what you want to say and say with it with conviction
• Calm Presence:  You've got this!  Show it with confidence and show it in your play

Coach Tracker

Can you remember every person you have ever met?  Neither can we.  Create a form, or notebook that you can help track those who would be helpful in your journey.  It is extremely helpful to start tracking all of the coaches you have ever met and the interactions with each coach.  

1. Coach:  Track the coaches you have ever worked with
2. College:  If there is a college associated iwth that coach, track that down in your journal.  Coaches, change positions frequently, so it is a good idea to keep a journal of these coaches and find out where they work today. 
3. Camps:  Which camps did you attend where you displayed your talents to that particular coach, and share that with them.  This is part of the personalization process, whereas you show them that you had worked with them and admired their approach to the game
4. Follow Up:  After each camp, reach out and thank them for their support, advice, and instruction

Performance Analysis

100% of coach coaches use game film study to their advantage.  Performance Analysis is the process of reflecting on a recent game or practice.  They use these tools to help them prepare, learn and identify strategies for succcss in their performance.  Take a few minutes to analyze your last performance.  Let's analzye your most recent performance. 

• What worked: What worked in your most recent performance?
• What challenge did you face?  How did you overcome this challenge?
• Did you have any areas of weakness?  How did you address your weaknesses?
  
• What can you do to improve for next performance?

After Action Development

Rising Stars Basketball

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Tips & Articles

Use these experiences to improve upon your next event.  If you shot the ball well, how can you better display your ability to score the ball in the midrange or at the rim?  If you struggled to defense, what strategy do you have to defend on-ball, or in help?  If you were not as physical as others, what is your strategy to be more aggressive and handle aggressive defense?  If you struggled to find your opponents in the half-court game, what are you doing to keep your head up and find teammates in the half court?  All of these opportunities are just that, opportunities to improve.

Conclusion

College coaches have shared a lot of insights in these College ID and Elite Camps.  Most of their shared knowledge include how to stand out in these events.  Standing out doesn't mean hogging the ball or taking all of the shots.  The college coaches have shared that sharing the ball and defending the ball are very important aspects of reviewing your game.