March marks the end of the Virginia High School League (VHSL) basketball season and many kids focus their interest on now playing Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) basketball over the summer. Staying active and sharp in the sport is a factor; however, gaining, if not maintaining, exposure is the number one reason many kids say they choose playing AAU basketball during the otherwise VHSL off season. Name recognition often means everything in basketball recruiting. Players traditionally found there are many ways to get and maintain exposure post March, like through their attending “elite” camps. Athletes introduced to an elite college basketball camp, for example, get to spend time with college and usually professional coaches, rewarding them with sought after exposure during camp.
In offering the athlete advice, it’s become extremely important to get to know the AAU coaches, the one(s) that can help develop your skills at your position. Very little need to go to a coach known for his point guard ability when you’re a forward or “big” (center) looking to take that next step. You also want to find a team that has players that will both push your skills to their potential and complement your strong-suit. Having supportive parents and being coached by an experienced and knowledgeable coach that focuses on individual-skill development and teaches over simply winning every game. Players like Princess Anne High School’s Brianna Jackson (6-3 junior), who just came off an outstanding season, averaging of 19 points and 15 rebounds a game, Is looking forward to playing AAU basketball, she said, to increase her skill level.
So, with another VHSL season in the books, there are many skilled AAU coaches that can simulate real-game situations in practices this summer.
AAU’s philosophy of “Sports for All, Forever” and its basketball program is about helping athletes achieve their on-court dreams through game experience and skill development. This platform has proven to be an excellent way to increase players’ experiences, help develop well-rounded skills, and yes, get noticed.
