Duke’s very own Coach K recruiting at the Nike EYBL -PICURE BY SARA CALDWELL/STAFF
Nowadays, everybody wants to play on the most well-known AAU team. How can you blame them? They want to play with the “best”. The best team in your state most likely participates in either the Adidas Guantlet, Under Armour Association, or the Nike EYBL. So the question comes up again, how can you blame them? Who wouldn’t want to play with Coach K on the side, ballislife recording and have shoe companies give you gear that can fill up your room?
Here’s my question, what comes after AAU? I’m assuming you’re playing AAU to give you a better chance to receive a free college education. Of the 538,676 HS basketball players, a decent percentage of them play AAU basketball for that reason. They’re trying to put themselves in a position to succeed, that’s great to see. However, is playing for that EYBL team best for you? The chances are low. Just because you can compete with the best, don’t automatically assume that you should play with them. Unless you can play well enough for a college coach to recognize you as a stand out player, don’t do it. Sure, every team needs role players. However, role players can stand out as well. Not every college coach America is looking for a five-star stud, some of them already have returning players who are the stars. Some coaches need role players. There are stars, role players and then those who almost have little to no role at all. If you want to play college basketball, don’t be the guy with no role.
Here’s something you probably don’t know, I’m a 16-year-old basketball player myself. Being that I’m from NYC, I would love to play in the EYBL with PSA Cardinals, NY Lightning or the NJ Playaz. However, will that put me in the best position to succeed? No. The fact of the matter is that college coaches will put much more focus on the players who really stand out than the one’s who will most likely blend in, like myself. However, eyes will be on me if I play on a slightly less competitive team. A basketball game is only so long, look at it minutes wise. How many minutes will a coach be able to focus on you if there is 5-10 other players in the game that perform on a higher level than you? It’s the truth, accept it and you will put yourself in a better position to accomplish your goals. For those who care more about gear than college, go play with a team that will bury you on the bench. Just make sure your team is helping you accomplish your goals and you’ll be able to go to sleep happy.
A look into the highly competitive Nike EYBL
