AAU basketball is often called the Wild West and in this episode, we break down exactly why!

🏀I sat down with AAU Director Joey Simmons to expose the harsh realities of AAU basketball, including:

- Why the lack of regulation creates chaos for parents and players.

- How to choose the right AAU team and avoid getting lost in the system.

- The difference between getting exposure vs. being exposed in front of coaches.

- What parents need to do to help their athletes get recruited the RIGHT way.

🚨 “Basketball isn’t governed by anybody... that’s why it’s the wild, wild West.” – Joey Simmons

If you’re a basketball parent trying to navigate AAU, this episode is a must-watch!

🎧 Listen to the full episode now and learn how to guide your athlete through the recruiting process.

About the Guest(s):

Joey Simmons is a legendary figure in grassroots girls' basketball, renowned for his extensive experience and leadership.

He is the founder of Attack Grassroots Sports (Texas Elite and Team Lex) and runs Joey Simmons Player Services, helping athletes secure college basketball opportunities.

As an AAU coach, director, and tournament organizer, Joey has significantly contributed to the development of young athletes.

Episode Summary:

Join host Ashley Roberts in an in-depth conversation with Joey Simmons, a leading voice in girls’ grassroots basketball. This episode covers the chaotic landscape of AAU basketball, offering essential advice for parents and players navigating recruitment.

Joey shares how to market young athletes to colleges, select the right tournaments, and avoid the trap of over exposure.

Listeners will gain insights into the evolving recruiting landscape, including the impact of the transfer portal, JUCO rule changes, and how circuits like Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour shape player development.

Key Takeaways:

- Exposure vs. Being Exposed: Focus on strategic tournament choices that match your athlete’s skill level.

- Parental Involvement Matters: Parents must take an active role in recruitment and communicate directly with coaches.

- New Recruiting Challenges: Learn how transfer portal and JUCO rule changes affect high school recruitment.

- Foundation First: Building basketball fundamentals from a young age ensures long-term success.

- Set Realistic Goals: Honest assessments of skill level lead to better recruitment decisions.

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About the Guest(s):

Mariqus Alexander is a seasoned basketball coach and entrepreneur with extensive experience in youth and college basketball.

Over the past 15 years, Mariqus has mentored and guided more than 120 students to pursue college basketball careers at various levels.

He has also been actively involved in AAU basketball, collaborating with renowned trainers and forming significant partnerships.

Mariqus has contributed greatly to the development of fundamental skills among young athletes and emphasizes positive sportsmanship on and off the court.

Episode Summary:

Today, we dive into the world of youth basketball with Coach Mariqus Alexander, who shares invaluable advice for parents navigating the complex landscape of AAU basketball and college recruiting.

Coach Mariqus opens up about his coaching philosophy, emphasizing the importance of fundamentals, positive reinforcement, and strategic career planning to ensure young athletes achieve their basketball dreams.

Throughout the episode, we explore the evolving dynamics of AAU basketball, especially how changes in the recruiting scene have impacted players' exposure opportunities.

Mariqus also highlights the significance of small, focused events like the SwipaLeague that offer better visibility for players compared to larger tournaments that might dilute individual chances for recognition.

Key Takeaways:

• Emphasize fundamental training and positive sportsmanship to enhance skills and opportunities for basketball careers.

• Assess and select AAU teams based on their alignment with a player's fit, development needs, and long-term goals.

• Strategic participation in smaller showcase events can provide better visibility for aspiring college athletes.

• Understand the current dynamics in college recruiting, including the importance of matching player skills with collegiate systems.

• Utilize various evaluation services and camp opportunities to gain a realistic understanding of a player's skill level and potential college fit.

  
  

  
  

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About the Guest(s):

Brittany Christian is an experienced basketball coach and a former player who has transitioned to become a key figure in the junior college (JUCO) basketball community.

Currently positioned at Paris Junior College, Coach Brittany, or "BC" as she is commonly addressed by her players and peers, has been pivotal in developing young athletes.

Her coaching approach emphasizes skill development, leadership, and personal growth, consistently contributing to the evolving landscape of JUCO basketball.

Episode Summary:

In this insightful episode of the "It's Just Different" podcast, host Ashley Roberts delves into the world of junior college basketball with guest Brittany Christian, a seasoned coach at Paris Junior College.

The discussion explores the evolving perceptions of JUCO, highlighting the valuable opportunities it offers to athletes seeking development and exposure, as opposed to the traditional Division 1 path that might not always be a fit for every player.

The episode reveals critical insights about the recruitment process, the importance of asking the right questions, and how social media plays a role in collegiate athletics today.

Coach Brittany emphasizes the significance of personalized development plans and maintaining recruitable profiles. She passionately discusses the mental and character-building aspects required of athletes who aim to grow beyond just technical and gameplay skills.

The conversation further touches on the competitive nature of Region 14 in JUCO basketball and the community culture within.

Key Takeaways:

• JUCO offers significant opportunities for player development, enabling athletes to keep their recruitment options open while gaining valuable playing time.

• Understanding the business side of athletic decisions is crucial for both players and their parents, involving careful questioning of development plans and potential fit within a program.

• Social media is a critical tool for athletes’ exposure, and maintaining an accessible and curated profile can aid in being noticed by recruiters.

• Region 14 is noted for its competitive environment, with a solid community of coaches and players committed to collective success.

• Emotional resilience and adaptability are essential traits for athletes, emphasizing the need to learn how to handle challenging situations and grow from them.

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About the Guest(s):

Jaelyn Richard Harris is an accomplished assistant coach at Nebraska Omaha with a rich background in basketball. Known for her strategic insights and passion for the game, Jaelyn has been instrumental in guiding young athletes towards success. Her journey from a kinesiology graduate with aspirations in medical school to a thriving career in coaching showcases her diverse interests and commitment to the sport.

During her recent formative years at Florida Gulf Coast State, she gained substantial experience and success, leading her to her current position. Jaelyn is recognized for her expertise in recruitment and player development, with a strong focus on relationship building.

Episode Summary:

Throughout the conversation, Jaelyn shares her experiences and insights into the world of basketball recruitment, the evolving landscape of college sports due to NIL regulations, and the unique culture of Nebraska Omaha. With a flair for identifying talent and nurturing athletic skills, Jaelyn discusses the importance of relationship-building in recruitment and her vision for the future of the sport.

The discussion delves into the challenges and opportunities presented by the transfer portal and NIL changes in college recruitment. Jaelyn emphasizes the vital role of transparency and communication between athletes, coaches, and parents, highlighting the importance of finding the right fit for athletes at both college and AAU levels.

By dissecting the particulars of recruiting high school athletes and the misconceptions surrounding JUCO programs, she provides valuable guidance for aspiring players and their families. The episode is a treasure trove of actionable insights for anyone intrigued by the contemporary sports recruitment scene.

Key Takeaways:

• NIL and the transfer portal have transformed college basketball recruitment, necessitating a focus on relationship-building and player fit.

• The misconceptions about JUCO programs need addressing, as they offer excellent opportunities for athletes.

• Social media is pivotal in modern recruitment, providing visibility and opportunities for athletes to showcase their talents.

• Understanding team dynamics and asking the right questions are crucial for athletes when selecting teams or programs.

• Nebraska Omaha offers a supportive environment with numerous professional and personal development opportunities for athletes.

  
  

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About the Guest(s):

Donny Ott is a seasoned basketball coach with a rich history of success across various high schools in Texas. Ott has a notable coaching background, including a transition from coaching boys to girls' basketball, and has led teams to multiple state championships.

He has been the head coach at Cedar Park, where he achieved exceptional success with two state titles, and Summer Creek, where he reached the state semifinals. Currently, Ott is at Alito, where he continues to build a promising basketball program while prioritizing his family's happiness and well-being.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of "It's Just Different Podcast," host Ashley Roberts sits down with accomplished basketball coach Donny Ott to discuss the evolving dynamics of high school basketball and the lessons learned from his successful coaching journey.

With a focus on building a winning culture, Ott shares his insights into adapting coaching strategies, managing player-parent relationships, and fostering buy-in from athletes and families.

As the game progresses, Ott offers his thoughts on potential changes like the introduction of a shot clock and transfer rules.

Ott provides valuable perspectives on adjusting to a more perimeter-focused game in high school basketball while maintaining traditional inside-out play.

Highlighting the importance of strong coach-parent communication, he emphasizes never meeting with players without their parents to ensure clarity and mutual understanding.

Ott stresses the significance of consistency in expectations and the impact of a supportive environment on a team's success. The episode is rich in insights, making it a must-listen for coaches, parents, and anyone involved in high school sports.

Key Takeaways:

The shift toward a faster-paced, more perimeter-focused game in high school basketball presents both challenges and opportunities for coaches.

Consistent expectations and communication, particularly with parents, are crucial for fostering team buy-in and success.

Adversity is a natural part of sports, and not running from challenges can lead to growth both for athletes and their programs.

The introduction of a shot clock could significantly impact the game, potentially reducing the ability to stall, as experienced in Ott's overtime game against Duncanville.

Building a culture of support from parents and assistant coaches can help teams succeed and thrive in a competitive sports environment.

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About the Guest(s):

Nicki Collen is the head coach of the Baylor University Women's Basketball Team. With a rich history in both collegiate and professional basketball, Collen brings a wealth of experience and a focus on development and relational dynamics within her teams.

Before joining Baylor, she served as a head coach in the WNBA, adding to her repertoire of managing high-talent players and achieving strategic game success.

Tony Greene serves as the Associate Head Coach at Baylor University. With over 30 years of coaching experience, Greene specializes in defensive strategy and player development. His insights are invaluable for understanding the motivational and developmental aspects of recruiting and team building.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of "It's Just Different Podcast," host Ashley Roberts chats with Baylor University's Head Coach Nicki Collen and Associate Head Coach Tony Greene about the nuanced process of basketball recruiting.

With detailed insights, the coaches share valuable advice for parents, athletes, and coaches on making informed decisions within the ever-evolving landscape of college basketball recruiting.

They emphasize the importance of aligning skills with playing opportunities, choosing the right AAU teams, and navigating recruitment with realistic expectations and thorough homework.

Delving into what coaches look for in potential recruits, the conversation also touches on the value of camps, the influence of social media, and how athletes can showcase their skills effectively to attract college programs.

Nicki Collen and Tony Greene discuss the significance of culture, relationships, and adaptability within college programs, and how they navigate these factors to build a cohesive and successful team.

This episode offers an engaging and informative exploration of the recruitment landscape for aspiring basketball athletes and their families.

Key Takeaways:

• Recruitment Strategies: Nicki Collen emphasizes the value of choosing programs where athletes are wanted and needed, both on and off the court.

• Importance of Camps: Camps offer a valuable opportunity for athletes to showcase themselves, learn about programs, and build relationships with coaches.

• Playing Up vs. Grade Level: Tony Greene suggests that playing up can be beneficial as it challenges athletes, while ensuring they still receive adequate playing time for development.

• Role of Social Media: Nicki Collen highlights the importance of using social media purposefully for showcasing talent and building fruitful relationships with coaches.

• Cultural Fit in Teams: The conversation underscores finding a college program with the right culture and relationships to support athlete development beyond just wins.

  
  

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About the Guest(s):

Joni Taylor: Joni Taylor is the head coach of the Texas A&M women's basketball team. With over two decades of experience in the SEC, both as a player and a coach, she brings extensive knowledge and expertise to A&M. Taylor has a strong background in coaching elite athletes and emphasizes holistic development on and off the basketball court.

Rodney Hill: An assistant coach at Texas A&M, Rodney Hill is a former Aggie student who uses his experiences to guide players both in their sports careers and personal growth. He is dedicated to fostering environments where athletes can thrive academically and athletically.

Chelsea Newton: Serving as an assistant coach at Texas A&M, Chelsea Newton is a former player who brings her professional playing experience to her coaching. She focuses on developing passionate, skilled, and academically driven athletes.

Robert Mosley: Assistant coach Robert Mosley brings years of high school coaching experience to the program. He emphasizes fundamentals, athletics, and personal development in his coaching philosophy.

Episode Summary:

The episode, led by host Ashley, offers invaluable insights for parents and young athletes navigating the basketball recruiting landscape. The conversation focuses heavily on understanding the importance of selecting the right university, creating a balance between athletics and academics, and the essential role of parents in the recruitment journey.

The episode centers around today's recruiting challenges, emphasizing the effect of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals and the transfer portal on college selections.

Joni Taylor and her coaching staff provide clear guidelines on what they seek in athletes — focusing on skill, versatility, and character development aligned with the Aggie values of leadership, integrity, and community involvement.

Each coach highlights the importance of fitting the basketball program and preparing for life after sports, urging parents to deeply research both colleges and AAU programs for their children.

Key Takeaways:

• Athlete Development: Emphasis on the holistic development of athletes, focusing on life skills and readiness beyond the basketball court.

• Recruiting Process: Insight into the recruitment journey, including the effects of NIL deals and the transfer portal on athlete decisions.

• Athlete Skillsets: Clear guidance on what skills and qualities coaches look for in a recruit, including playing style and personal values.

• Parental Involvement: The critical role of parents in the recruiting process, from selecting appropriate AAU programs to guiding their children's collegiate decisions.

• Team Culture: An overview of the Texas A&M basketball program’s values and culture which prioritize athlete's development both on and off the court.

  
  

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About The Guest(s):

Jason Burton: Jason Burton is the head coach of the University of North Texas women's basketball team. Bringing over a decade of coaching experience, Burton has continually emphasized culture, fit, and player development. Under his leadership, the team has maintained its focus on creating an environment that fosters both academic excellence and athletic prowess.

Brittney Brown: Serving as the associate head coach, Brittney Brown draws from her extensive basketball experience both as a coach and a former player at the University of Oklahoma. Her role is integral in player development and recruitment, ensuring athletes who join the team are both skilled and culturally aligned with UNT.

Durmon Jennings: As an associate coach at UNT, Durmon Jennings contributes significantly to the team’s defense strategies and game preparations. His attention to detail helps in refining the team’s competitive edge, ensuring that players understand the nuances of both offensive and defensive play.

Princess Davis: An assistant coach and the recruiting coordinator, Princess Davis is vital in identifying talent that aligns with UNT’s high standards. Her experience as a former high-scoring college athlete brings valuable insight into player evaluation and development processes.

Episode Summary:

The discussion provides a deep dive into the evolving landscape of college athletics, particularly focusing on recruitment, NIL (name, image, and likeness) policies, and the introduction of revenue-sharing models.

As NIL and transfer portals reshape strategies, the coaches emphasize the importance of fit and culture in recruitment choices, ensuring that prospective players align with UNT’s competitive and academic standards.

Coach Jason Burton leads the conversation on the current challenges and opportunities facing college basketball programs today.

As the podcast dives into UNT's unique coaching philosophy, listeners are treated to insights on how to navigate the changing landscape of NCAA regulations. From recruiting elite talent to adapting strategies that fit the evolving construct of NCAA sports, the episode offers valuable perspectives on sustaining a winning culture within university programs.

Coaches Brittney Brown, Durmon Jennings, and Princess Davis add their expertise on player development, highlighting the importance of strong academic and personal character in athletes.

Key Takeaways:

• Recruitment Evolution: The recruitment process now involves navigating NIL, revenue-sharing models, and shortened transfer windows, with a strong emphasis on finding players that fit the team culture.

• Player Development: Successful integration and development of players involve understanding their personal backgrounds, support systems, and attitudes both on and off the court.

• Strategic Fit: The decision to offer players is contingent upon their fit with current team needs and ensuring alignment with UNT's basketball standards.

• Importance of Competitive Edge: Players who excel at both defense and offense are more desirable; they should focus on fundamentals, including game IQ and physical conditioning.

• Social Media's Role: Social media presence can critically impact recruitment, highlighting the importance of maintaining a professional and authentic online presence aligned with personal and team values.

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