Creating a highlight reel and sending film to college coaches is an important part of the recruiting process. Follow these dos and don'ts of basketball film.
Basketball is a rarity in that coaches consistently want game tapes over highlights so they can get a complete and honest view of the player. Updating your Hudl after each game is very important for basketball prospects.
“A few highlights are helpful to see her make shots, passes, etc. but having some un-edited game film is imperative for us to see defense, effort, body language, etc.” – Boston College Women's HC Johnson
Boston College Women's Basketball Coach Erik Johnson Bounces Advice Your Way
Do's:
- “Show high basketball IQ. For one example, I may watch for the cutting/screening action that led to your shot, not just the actual shot.” – Davidson Women's HC Fulks
- “Shooting and how he reacts to different (primarily negative) situations in a game.” – Penn Men's HC Donahue
- “How hard they play, how hard they play defense, and their quickness level.” – Trinity Men's HC Cosgrove
- “Athleticism, shooting ability, and the competition level of opposition.” – Florida Southern Men's HC Donnelly
- “The effort given and poise shown in game situations.” – Concordia Chicago Men's HC Rogers
- Bonus: Make highlight reels showcasing both summer (AAU) and winter (High School) competition
Don'ts:
- “Don't Highlight just offense.” – Babson Women's HC Blinstrub
- Don't portray your game inaccurately, “so we don't see you play live and you aren't that guy at all.” – Oberlin Men's HC Cavaco
- “Don't put questionable music on your highlight tape.” – Concordia HC Rogers
- Bonus: Don't show half court shots
* Originally published on January 18, 2022, by Thomas Walker