Basketball Recruiting

3 Ways To Make College Basketball Coaches Notice You without Film

By Dylan Tehada|Updated on June 27, 2023 (originally published on December 28, 2021)

The college recruiting process for basketball is very competitive, and having video footage of your plays puts you at an advantage in terms of grabbing a coach's attention. However, there are other effective ways to get your name out there if you lack video footage. In this article, we will discuss 3 different ways you can grab the attention of college basketball coaches.

1. Communicate with Coaches
The most effective way to be on a coach's radar is to remain in constant communication with them. Coaches are more accessible than ever with the amount of digital communication available through social media and even email. High school athletes cannot expect coaches to come to them, therefore the best way to catch a coach's attention and let them know you're interested is by reaching out to them and expressing your interest.

2. Go to Showcases and Camps
Many prospective collegiate basketball players give into the notion that only players who are invited to certain elite showcases, like the EYBL Peach Jam, are the ones that will play in college. This misconception is far from the truth because there are plenty of showcases and camps that allow players to showcase their talent. In fact, if you are interested in a specific school, it would be ideal to attend a camp at that school so you can meet the coaching staff and have them see how you play in person. Playing in person is more valuable than anything a highlight reel brings to the table, and it shows intangibles that coaches may be looking for.

3. Invite Coaches to Games
Another opportunity to get a coach's attention without a highlight tape is to invite them to your games. This can be done with a coach you are currently in contact with or a coach from another city or state that you are playing in. The best way to invite them to a game is to give them the specific details and to ask if they are available. If they end up attending, they will be able to see many of the intangibles that highlight tapes do not capture, and you also get the opportunity to introduce yourself to them after the game.