College basketball without high school experience

Hey everyone, so I love basketball and I've been thinking about trying out for a college team. Is it possible to play college basketball without having played in high school? How can I prepare for this?

Answer: It's definitely possible to play college basketball without having played in high school, though it might be more challenging depending on the level of competition at the college you attend. Here are a few steps you can take to prepare yourself for tryouts:

1) Assess your skill level: Be honest with yourself about where your basketball skills currently stand. If you haven't played on an organized team before, chances are you might need to work on specific skills to become more competitive for a college roster spot.

2) Training and conditioning: Work on your basketball skills (shooting, passing, dribbling, defending) along with strength, endurance, and agility training. Incorporate both individual practice and playing in local leagues or pick-up games to gain more experience in game situations.

3) Video analysis: Watch game footage and analyze the play of college and professional players, especially those who play in your position. This will help you understand the nuances of team basketball and the expectations at the college level.

4) Consider club or intramural basketball: These programs are typically less competitive than varsity sports but still offer an organized team environment. This can be a great way to gain experience, make connections with others who share your passion, and possibly get noticed by the varsity coaching staff.

5) Walk-on tryouts: Many colleges hold walk-on tryouts or open gyms where prospective players can showcase their talent. Attend these events and give it your all, demonstrating both your skill and work ethic.

6) Build relationships with coaching staff: While being cautious not to be overbearing, take advantage of opportunities to meet or communicate with the college basketball coaching staff. Express your genuine interest in the program and ask for advice on how to best prepare for potential tryouts.

Remember that every college basketball program is different and has its unique requirements, so tailoring your preparation to the specific school and program will increase your chances of success. Best of luck in your journey towards playing college basketball!