Whether you’re a young athlete with dreams of playing college basketball or a parent guiding your child through this challenging journey, our mission is to equip you with the knowledge and insights you need. And now, we’re about to unravel a critical element that can make or break your aspirations: Exposure.
Let’s cut to the chase. Just because you’re on the court with coaches on the sideline, or cameras capturing your every move, doesn’t guarantee exposure. It’s not just about being present; it’s about being prepared for the opportunity. In this post, we’ll unravel the complexities of exposure, its misconceptions, and how to make the most out of your limited chances.
3 Critical Points to Remember as a College Prospect
1. Understanding the Recruiting Calendar
First things first, the NCAA has revamped the recruiting calendar, narrowing down the days college coaches can observe players. In the crucial years leading up to college, from your freshman through rising junior year, you essentially have about a 30-day window within three years for coaches to watch you. Two weekends are allocated for high school programs, while the remaining days involve travel basketball programs. Mark your calendars for late June and a final weekend in July – the prime moments for exposure.
2. Exposure Requires Preparation
Exposure is only valuable when you’re prepared for the opportunity it presents. Being on the court with coaches or cameras watching won’t benefit you if you haven’t put in the work beforehand. Don’t fall into the trap of expecting different results while doing the same thing. It’s about learning, adapting, and seizing the moment.
3. Competing vs. Developing
While tournaments and competitions are essential, they should not replace focused development. You don’t improve simply by playing against competition. True growth comes from honing your skills in the gym, away from the spotlight.
Continuous competition doesn’t necessarily make you better. NBA players don’t make leaps during games; it happens when nobody’s watching. If you’re always in tournaments, you might be playing it safe, sticking to your comfort zone, and missing the chance to take risks, make mistakes, and ultimately improve.
How Can You Position Yourself for Success?
1. Find the Right Team
2. Play Your Position
3. Continuous Improvement
Given the limited exposure days, it’s crucial to find the right team and put yourself in situations where your skills shine. Having the skills is one thing, but showcasing them in the right context is equally vital. Playing out of position or with the wrong strategy can cost you interest from college coaches. Remember, it’s not just about being on the court; it’s about being optimized and demonstrating an understanding of what it takes to play at the next level.
Looking Ahead…
As you embark on this journey to become a college basketball player, remember that only a small percentage make it to Division 1 with a scholarship. This conversation is for those aiming for that top 2.5%, driven to play college basketball at the next level and earn that coveted scholarship.
In the end, don’t let the fear of missing out on tournaments hinder your overall development. Understand the game, the calendar, and how to make the most out of every situation.