The most critical thing college coaches are looking for is players who can positively impact winning. But what does that really mean, and how can you develop that ability?
Whether it’s a scholarship or a walk-on opportunity, I’ve got the inside scoop on what you need to show and how to develop it.
So, what’s the number one thing college coaches seek?
It’s quite straightforward—players who can positively impact winning. Now, you might be thinking, “Well, that sounds easy,” but the decisions made along the journey significantly affect the ability to influence the outcome of games.
Skills Matter, But Impact Matters More
Skills like shooting, dribbling, defense, and rebounding are crucial, but here’s the catch—they matter only if you can convince coaches that you can impact winning at their coaching level. It’s not just about playing; it’s about making a difference in the game’s outcome.
How do you make an Impact?
1. The Team Dilemma: Role Over Prestige
Choosing the right team is crucial. Many parents and players make the mistake of aiming for the biggest and most prestigious teams. While playing on a prominent team is appealing, having a significant role on the court is even more critical. Whether you’re an all-around player or a specialist, your impact on winning should be evident.
2. A Step-by-Step Guide to Development
Developing this ability requires a step-by-step process. Start at a level where you have an impact on the game’s outcome. As you grow, challenge yourself by moving up a level. Take personal accountability for wins and losses, and avoid blaming others.
3. The Repetition Principle
Repetition is key—repeatedly impact winning at different levels to condition yourself to become a player with a game, not just someone who plays games. College coaches are on the lookout for players who can apply their skills spontaneously in various situations to improve the team’s chances of winning.
4. The Essence of Success: Accountability and Responsibility
In essence, if you want that college scholarship or the chance to play at the next level, focus on impacting winning at every stage of your journey. It’s not just about playing the game; it’s about developing a game-changing mindset.
The more you impact winning, the more you develop a valuable basketball “game.” By game, I mean the ability to apply your skills to countless situations, making the right plays at the right time for the right reasons, ultimately giving your team a better chance to win.
So, to sum it up, if you want to play college basketball, put yourself in situations where you impact the game’s outcome. Be a player of accountability, and understand that impacting winning is the ultimate goal. And when you face challenges or players better than you, embrace them as opportunities to grow and close the gap.