High Point Basketball Training – Trainers, Camps & Teams
High Point basketball sits at the heart of the Piedmont Triad — a 336-area city with a genuine basketball heritage, HPU’s Qubein Center, and access to one of the most basketball-rich regions in America. This page helps families find their fit without the noise.
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Why This High Point Basketball Resource Exists
High Point’s 120,000 residents live in a compact 58-square-mile city surrounded by one of the most basketball-rich regions in the country. The Piedmont Triad gives families access to dozens of training options from High Point itself through Greensboro and Winston-Salem — but more options doesn’t make choosing easier. This page helps you understand the local landscape, ask the right questions, and decide what makes sense for your child and your family’s schedule. The best program for a family near HPU’s campus might not be right for a family in the Deep River area, and vice versa.
Our Approach: Context, Not Direction
We don’t rank trainers or camps as “best” — we help you understand what makes different programs right for different needs. The best fit depends on your child’s age, skill level, goals, your family’s schedule, budget, and where you live in the Triad. This page provides evaluation frameworks and local context, not prescriptive recommendations. Learn how BasketballTrainer.com works • Read our editorial standards
Understanding High Point’s Basketball Geography
High Point is compact by comparison to cities like Charlotte or Raleigh — 58 square miles with most of the city reachable in 15-20 minutes. That’s genuinely good news for families. The more relevant geography question in the 336 isn’t “How far across High Point is this program?” but “Am I willing to drive to Greensboro or Winston-Salem for a better fit?” Because the Triad puts all three cities within 25 miles of each other, and many of the best training options in the region draw from across all three.
Northside / HPU Area
What to Know: Home to High Point University’s 5,000-seat Qubein Center. The most active college basketball presence in the city. Allen Jay Recreation Center serves this corridor.
- Commute Reality: 20 minutes to downtown Greensboro via I-85, 25 to Winston-Salem
- School Access: Multiple Guilford County schools, access to Penn-Griffin
- Basketball Asset: HPU camp access, Armstrong Park outdoor courts, Armstrong Park proximity
Central / Southside
What to Know: Historic heart of High Point, high density, diverse community. Home to Southside Recreation Center with its KaBoom multi-sport court and Boys & Girls Club. T. Wingate Andrews and High Point Central High Schools are here.
- Commute Reality: Central location, 15 minutes to most city destinations
- Basketball Legacy: TW Andrews hosts Triad Blue Chip summer league games
- AAU Asset: Power AAU boys tryouts at Southside Recreation Center
Southwest / Allen Jay / HPCA
What to Know: More residential, home to High Point Christian Academy (HPCA) and Allen Jay Rec Center. Also where Westchester Country Day School is located. Proximity to Jamestown and southwestern Guilford County.
- Commute Reality: Quick I-85 access to Greensboro; 15-20 min to Winston-Salem
- Basketball Note: HPCA had Bam Adebayo (2025 NBA All-Star) on its roster in 2015-16
- Private School Options: HPCA and Westchester CDS both offer varsity programs
Southeast / Deep River / Skeet Club
What to Know: Newer development, growing residential area. Deep River Recreation Center serves this corridor and is used for Power AAU girls tryouts. Oakview Recreation Center also in this area.
- Commute Reality: Good highway access to Greensboro (I-85) and Asheboro
- School Districts: Mix of Guilford County and Randolph County schools
- Basketball Access: Deep River Rec Center gym with consistent hours
The Triad Advantage — and Its Complication
High Point families have a genuine geographic advantage: Greensboro is 20 minutes east, Winston-Salem is 25 minutes northwest, and both cities host strong basketball programs and facilities. Unlike families in isolated markets who must accept what’s local or drive two hours, Triad families have real choice within a 30-minute radius.
The complication: when you can drive anywhere, it’s easy to over-commit. A program 25 minutes away might sound manageable until it’s twice a week plus weekend tournaments. Think honestly about sustainable driving. Many families find a “good enough” program 10 minutes away beats an “excellent” program 25 minutes away — especially once you factor in a full season of travel.
High Point Basketball Trainers
These are basketball trainers and skill development programs serving High Point and the broader Piedmont Triad. Because the 336 area is interconnected, some options are based in Greensboro or Winston-Salem but actively serve High Point families. Use the evaluation questions later on this page when reaching out to any of these options.
Winning Basketball (Coach Swindell)
Coach Swindell operates individual and small group basketball training sessions for players in the High Point area, with an emphasis on game-situation skill work rather than isolated drills. Parents who’ve trained with Swindell specifically note his ability to address individual player needs as they evolve throughout a season and his skill at putting athletes into competitive game scenarios rather than purely mechanical repetition. Sessions typically run $45-75 per individual hour, with small group rates around $25-40 per player. The program works with youth through high school players with a focus on helping athletes prepare for the next competitive level, whether that’s JV tryouts, varsity, or AAU competition. Families in High Point appreciate that this is a locally embedded program rather than a regional franchise.
Blue Chip Basketball Academy (Kishon Bishop)
Founded by Kishon Bishop — a former national team captain for St. Vincent and the Grenadines and graduate of High Point University — Blue Chip Basketball Academy is one of the most active basketball organizations in the Piedmont Triad. Bishop coaches and operates from the #336 area, serving Guilford County (which includes High Point) alongside Forsyth, Davidson, and surrounding counties. The academy specializes in one-on-one training, small group skills sessions, and competitive leagues. BCBA also runs several signature Triad events including the TriadFIRST48 Showcase (which identifies top underclassmen from Guilford County), the Champion Triad High School Fall League, and the Triad High Summer League — the summer league has specifically been held at T.W. Andrews High School in High Point. Individual training sessions run approximately $40-70; group training and league participation pricing varies by program. Bishop’s international playing background and his HPU roots make this a program with genuine local investment alongside elite-level training methodology. Website: bluechipbasketballacademy.com
Pro Skills Basketball — Triad (Kellen Parrish, Director)
Pro Skills Basketball operates its Triad presence out of the Winston-Salem/Kernersville area under director Kellen Parrish, a highly credentialed coach who has served as varsity head coach at Glenn High School and Pinecrest High School, earned consecutive Mid-State 3A/2A Coach of the Year honors and the All-Area Coach of the Year award. Parrish has deep roots in HP-area basketball specifically, having volunteered with High Point Xpress, Twin City Jazz, and Winston-Salem Stealers. As a JR NBA Flagship organization, PSB offers clinics, academies, camps, and club teams for boys and girls in grades 2-11. Their academy-style training includes a Shooting Academy and a Player Development Academy with multi-week curricula. Clinics and academies typically run $80-150 per session series; club team fees are $800-1,500 depending on the age group and season length. High Point families are well within the geographic footprint PSB serves. Website: proskillsbasketball.com/winston-salem/
Triad Basketball Academy (Greensboro)
Triad Basketball Academy operates out of Greensboro — roughly 20 minutes from central High Point — and bills itself as a full-service basketball facility: “If it’s basketball, we do it here.” The academy offers advanced certified trainers and specialized basketball equipment including shooting machines. Their range covers private instruction through group training and competitive leagues. Because Greensboro and High Point function as a single metro basketball ecosystem, this option is genuinely accessible to HP families willing to make the short drive. Session pricing is comparable to other Triad training options at $40-80 per individual session. Best for families who want a dedicated facility environment with equipment access alongside their instruction. Website: tbagso.com
YMCA of High Point Youth Basketball (Recreational/League)
For families looking for organized league play rather than private skill instruction, the YMCA of High Point offers a comprehensive youth basketball program across two locations: Hartley Drive Family YMCA (150 Hartley Drive) and Carl & Linda Grubb Family YMCA (609 Trindale Road, Trinity). Programs run year-round across three main seasons: Summer Basketball (ages 5-15), Winter Basketball (ages 3-15), and a dedicated Summer Basketball Camp (ages 8-15). The Y approach centers on fundamentals alongside character values — honest, caring, respect, responsibility — rather than elite competition. Season fees typically run $60-120 depending on the season and membership status, with financial assistance available for qualifying families. This is a good entry point for families new to youth basketball or those who want recreational play without the intensity and cost of select programs. The Y is transparent that coaches are volunteers, which is worth knowing when calibrating expectations. Website: hpymca.org
High Point Basketball Camps
High Point basketball camps run primarily during summer months with some track-out options available given the area’s year-round school calendars. One significant asset the city has that many of its size don’t: Division I basketball camp access at High Point University’s Qubein Center, which opened in 2022 as one of the nicest mid-major arenas in the country.
High Point University Basketball Camps
High Point University offers both men’s and women’s basketball summer camps run by the HPU coaching staff, using the $170 million Qubein Center arena and its practice facilities. This is one of the genuinely unusual assets High Point has — a brand-new D1 facility that most cities this size can’t offer. HPU made its first NCAA Tournament appearance in 2025 under coach Alan Huss before he departed for Creighton, giving the program real national credibility that feeds into their camp quality. Youth players ages 8 and up can receive instruction on an actual D1 court with college-level coaching staff. Camp pricing is not published online (contact the athletic department directly), but comparable HPU-quality D1 camps in North Carolina run $150-300 per week depending on format. Both boys and girls programming is available. Contact: Men’s basketball via [email protected]; Women’s basketball contact also available through highpointpanthers.com/sports/camps.
Blue Chip Basketball Academy Summer Day Camp
Blue Chip Basketball Academy runs an annual summer day camp for players across the Triad, including High Point. Led by Kishon Bishop and the BCBA staff, the camp bridges individual skill development with the competitive culture BCBA has built through its showcase and league events. Players can expect fundamental skill work alongside exposure to BCBA’s broader training system. The camp also serves as an informal pipeline to BCBA’s competitive leagues and showcase events for older players. Pricing for the day camp is comparable to other skill-development camps in the region at $100-200 per week. This is a good option for families who want camp experience with a genuine connection to a competitive post-camp basketball pathway. Website: bluechipbasketballacademy.com
Westchester Country Day School Basketball Clinic
Westchester Country Day School offers summer basketball clinics led by head varsity boys basketball coach Dominique Boone, who brings 12+ years of collegiate head coaching experience to his youth instruction. The clinics focus on building a solid fundamental foundation through dribbling, passing, shooting, and teamwork in a supportive environment appropriate for developing players. WCDS specifically markets its summer programs to families throughout the greater High Point, Winston-Salem, and Greensboro area, making it a legitimate option for HP families regardless of school affiliation. The basketball clinic runs approximately $185 per session, consistent with WCDS’s overall summer camp pricing structure. Good fit for younger players in elementary through early middle school who need fundamentals before moving to more competitive summer options. Website: westchestercds.org/summer-camps
YMCA of High Point Summer Basketball Camp
The Hartley Drive Family YMCA offers a dedicated summer basketball camp separate from its league programming, designed for boys and girls ages 8-15. The camp combines basketball instruction with the Y’s broader summer day camp structure, which means extended hours (helpful for working parents) and a full-day environment rather than just morning instruction. Camp fees run approximately $90-140 per week depending on membership status, with financial assistance available through the Y’s scholarship fund. This is one of the most affordable structured camp options in High Point, and the extended hours make it a practical choice for families who need summer childcare alongside skill development. The camp runs late July through early August. Registration typically opens in June. Website: hpymca.org
Pro Skills Basketball Camps — Triad Area
Pro Skills Basketball runs structured skills camps in the Kernersville/Winston-Salem area that are accessible to High Point families given the 20-25 minute drive. Camps are designed for beginner to intermediate players in grades 2-8 and focus on foundational skill development with the PSB curriculum. Camp pricing typically runs $100-175 per week consistent with PSB’s national program pricing. PSB’s camp structure benefits from the same coaching staff that leads their year-round club teams, meaning camp instruction has the same developmental philosophy as their competitive programs. This makes PSB camps a natural entry point for families considering PSB club teams down the road. Website: proskillsbasketball.com/winston-salem/
High Point Select & AAU Basketball Teams
High Point and Triad area select basketball teams typically compete in regional tournaments primarily March through August, with tryouts often in February-March. The Triad’s central North Carolina location means tournament travel often includes Charlotte, Raleigh, Greensboro tournament hubs, and regional events in Virginia or South Carolina — manageable compared to families in truly isolated markets, but still a real cost and time commitment.
High Point Power AAU Basketball
High Point Power AAU Basketball is genuinely unique: it’s a travel program administered directly by the City of High Point Parks & Recreation Department. Most AAU programs are private organizations; having a city-run option creates both accessibility advantages and some important practical differences. Boys teams are available for ages 11-16; girls teams run ages 11-15. There is no tryout fee, and tryouts are held at city recreation centers — boys at Southside Recreation Center, girls at Deep River Recreation Center. Team fees apply once players are selected, but because this is a city program, those fees are generally lower than private AAU operations. The program competes in tournaments throughout the spring and summer. For families who want competitive AAU experience without the premium cost of a private organization, this is worth investigating first. Advance registration is required for tryouts through the High Point Parks & Recreation portal at highpointnc.gov.
High Point Xpress Basketball
High Point Xpress is a local travel basketball organization with established roots in the High Point basketball community — experienced Triad coaches specifically cite it alongside Twin City Jazz and Winston-Salem Stealers as part of the regional competitive landscape they’ve engaged with. The Xpress operates competitive youth teams across multiple age groups competing in regional AAU-circuit tournaments through the Carolinas and mid-Atlantic region. Annual fees for established Triad travel programs of this type typically run $1,000-2,000 in direct team costs, with additional tournament travel expenses of $1,500-3,000 annually depending on tournament schedule and geographic reach. Contact the program directly for current tryout schedules and team availability across age groups.
Pro Skills Basketball Club Teams — Winston-Salem/Triad
Pro Skills Basketball operates competitive club teams for boys and girls in grades 2-11 out of the Winston-Salem/Kernersville corridor, with a geographic footprint that explicitly includes the High Point/Asheboro area. Directed by Kellen Parrish, the teams run 8-11 months with 2-3 practices per week and 2-3 tournament weekends per month. PSB is a JR NBA Flagship organization, which provides access to nationally recognized development curriculum and exposure events. Team fees vary by age group and season length, typically in the $800-1,500 range for PSB programs nationally, with tournament travel adding to that total. PSB distinguishes itself philosophically by explicitly supporting multi-sport athletes — they’ll work with families on scheduling around football, soccer, and other fall sports rather than demanding single-sport commitment. Spring tryouts for 2026 were scheduled in late February. Website: proskillsbasketball.com/winston-Salem/
Blue Chip Basketball Academy — Triad Leagues & Showcases
While Blue Chip Basketball Academy is primarily a training and events organization rather than a traditional travel team, its competitive programming deserves separate mention for high school players in particular. BCBA’s TriadFIRST48 Showcase identifies the top 48 underclassmen across Triad public and private schools — Guilford County specifically is one of the featured county designations, meaning High Point players are a core constituency. The organization also runs the Triad High School Fall League and Triad Middle School League, which provide competitive game reps outside the school season without requiring a full travel team commitment. These are pay-per-event or pay-per-season structures rather than season-long team fees, making them financially accessible for families who want exposure and competition but can’t commit to a full travel program budget. Website: bluechipbasketballacademy.com
High Point High School Basketball
High Point is the only city in North Carolina that lies in four counties, which means the high school landscape is more complex than in most cities. Most HP students are in Guilford County Schools — the state’s third-largest district — but portions of the city also fall under Davidson, Randolph, and Forsyth county systems. Understanding which district serves your address determines your options. NCHSAA (North Carolina High School Athletic Association) governs school basketball statewide.
Guilford County Schools (Primary District)
High Point-area schools in Guilford County Schools:
- High Point Central High School (801 Ferndale Blvd) — historically significant program in the city
- T. Wingate Andrews High School (1920 McGuinn Drive) — hosts Blue Chip summer league
- Southwest Guilford High School — serves southwestern High Point and Jamestown area
- Penn-Griffin Schools (825 Washington Street, grades 6-12) — specialized program
Private Schools
- High Point Christian Academy (HPCA) — Private, grades PK-12, ~900 students. Competes in Piedmont Triad Athletic Conference (PTAC) and NCISAA at 3A level. Basketball programs since 1999-2000. Notable alumni include Edrice “Bam” Adebayo (attended 2015-16, now NBA All-Star with Miami Heat; selected 14th overall in 2017 draft).
- Westchester Country Day School — Independent, serves grades K-12, varsity basketball program with experienced collegiate-background coaching
Davidson County Schools (Portions of HP)
Families in High Point’s Davidson County portions attend Lexington-area schools within Davidson County Schools District, which has 35 schools and strong athletic traditions.
School tryout timing: NCHSAA basketball tryouts typically occur in October for winter season. Boys and girls varsity/JV programs are standard at all major HP high schools.
How to Use These Listings
These are High Point and Triad-area trainers, camps, and teams that families in the area work with. We don’t rank them as “best” or endorse specific programs. Use the evaluation questions in the next section when contacting any of these options. The right fit depends on your child’s age, skill level, goals, your family’s schedule, and budget. Contact 2-3 options before committing to see which feels right for your family.
High Point Recreation Centers: Basketball on a Budget
Before spending money on private training, understand what High Point’s six municipal recreation centers already provide. With fitness center access at Southside running just $2/visit or $60/year, these facilities offer some of the most affordable court access in North Carolina. Here’s where families across the 336 actually play.
South & Central High Point
Southside Recreation Center & Park
Address: 401 Taylor Ave | Fitness Center: $2/visit or $60/year
The hub of organized youth basketball in High Point — this is where the city-run High Point Power AAU boys teams hold tryouts, which tells you everything about its standing in the community. The KaBoom multi-sport court and Boys & Girls Club presence give it a uniquely community-centered atmosphere. The fitness center is open alongside court access.
Operating Hours: Mon–Thu 11am–8pm | Fri 11am–6pm | Sat 9am–2pm
Best for: Families in central/south HP, anyone wanting to engage with HP Power AAU programming, players wanting affordable conditioning + court access combo.
Washington Terrace Park & Community Center
Serves the Washington Terrace neighborhood in central High Point. Community-anchored facility with gym space used for youth programs and open play.
Hours: Mon–Thu 11am–8pm | Fri 11am–6pm | Sat 9am–2pm
Southeast & Deep River Area
Deep River Recreation Center & Park
Address: 1529 Skeet Club Road
Home base for High Point Power AAU girls tryouts — the city chose this facility for a reason. Deep River serves the southeastern quadrant of High Point and the Guilford/Randolph border area. Lower traffic than central facilities means more open court time for players who want uninterrupted work.
Hours: Mon–Thu 11am–8pm | Fri 11am–6pm | Sat 9am–2pm | Best for: Families near SW Guilford HS or HPCA, girls basketball players interested in HP Power AAU.
Southwest & Allen Jay Area
Allen Jay Recreation Center & Park
Features: Indoor Gymnasium + Lighted Outdoor Basketball Courts
The outdoor lighted courts are a practical advantage — extending playable hours into evenings when the indoor gym may have league programming. Serves the Allen Jay and southwestern High Point community, convenient for families near SW Guilford High School.
Hours: Mon–Thu 11am–8pm | Fri 11am–6pm | Sat 9am–2pm
North & Northeast High Point
Nathanael S. Morehead Recreation Center & Park
Northern High Point facility serving the Morehead-area community. Basketball gymnasium with standard youth programming and open play hours.
Oakview Recreation Center & Park
Serves the Oakview area on the north side. Part of High Point’s citywide rec system with consistent hours and programming schedule across all facilities.
Getting Into High Point Recreation Centers
High Point Parks & Recreation manages all six facilities with consistent hours and programming. For information on leagues, registration, and facility access across all centers:
High Point Parks & Recreation Athletics:
Athletics Coordinator Eli Campbell — handles leagues, HP Power AAU registration, and program inquiries
Website: highpointnc.gov (search “recreation centers” or “HP Power AAU”)
Southside Fitness Center: $2/visit | $60/year
Among the best-value court access in the Triad.
📍 Insider Note: T. Wingate Andrews High School hosts Blue Chip Basketball Academy’s summer league — not a rec center, but worth knowing as a community court resource when school facilities are available to outside programming during summer months.
Evaluating Basketball Training Options in High Point
We provide evaluation frameworks, not recommendations. These questions help you assess trainers, camps, and teams based on what matters for YOUR family in the 336.
Questions to Ask Private Trainers
Why this matters in High Point: The Triad means trainers in Winston-Salem and Greensboro may be 20-25 minutes away. A trainer with strong local relationships and familiarity with HP Central’s or Andrews’ coaching staff can be more valuable than a technically superior trainer 30 minutes out.
Why this matters: A trainer focused on varsity-level high school players may not be the right fit for your 5th grader working on fundamentals, even if their credentials are impressive.
Why this matters: Vague promises of “improvement” mean nothing. Specific targets — “complete ball-handling sequences at game speed” or “free throw percentage improves by 20%” — give you something to hold a trainer accountable to.
Why this matters in the Triad: “I-40 to Winston-Salem” sounds manageable until you’re doing it twice a week after work. Be honest about your drive time tolerance before committing.
Why this matters: Life happens — school conflicts, family obligations, illness. Understanding this before your first payment protects your investment.
Questions to Ask About Camps
Why this matters: 1 coach per 20 kids = babysitting. 1 coach per 8 kids = actual instruction. HPU camps running on D1 facilities can still vary widely on this metric.
Why this matters: Camps emphasizing games and competition teach different lessons than camps emphasizing breakdown drills. Both have value — know what you’re buying before you register.
Why this matters: A 4th grader grouped with 8th graders in a “youth” camp is a different experience entirely. Ask specifically how groups are divided.
Why this matters in High Point: Multiple organizations in the 336 offer need-based scholarship assistance that isn’t prominently advertised. Ask directly — the answer can make a $250 camp accessible.
Questions to Ask About AAU/Select Teams
Why this matters in the Triad: Charlotte is 90 minutes. Raleigh/Durham is 75 minutes. Virginia circuits are reachable in 3 hours. The Carolinas mid-Atlantic circuit means frequent weekend travel — budget hotel costs, gas, and food realistically before committing.
Why this matters: Team fees ($800-2,000) are the starting point. Add hotels, gas, food, and incidentals for tournament weekends and the real cost often doubles. Get a clear picture upfront.
Why this matters: “Everyone plays equal” and “best players play more” are both valid philosophies — but they produce very different experiences for your child. Know which one you’re signing up for.
Why this matters: Programs that demand single-sport commitment from 10-year-olds create unnecessary pressure. Pro Skills Basketball explicitly supports multi-sport athletes — ask other organizations where they stand before your child joins a team.
High Point Pricing Reality Check
Municipal Rec (HP Power AAU + open play): Low-cost entry point; check highpointnc.gov for current season fees
Private Training (individual): $40-125/session depending on trainer credentials and format
Private Training (small group): $30-75/player per session
Summer Camps: $90-300/week depending on facility and instruction level
AAU/Select Teams: $800-2,000 annual team fees, plus $1,500-3,000 in travel costs for competitive programs
Investment vs. Outcome Reality
Bam Adebayo went to High Point Christian Academy. That doesn’t mean every High Point kid needs a private trainer at age 10. Basketball development happens over years, not weeks. The $60/week YMCA camp might be exactly right for your 8-year-old. The municipal HP Power AAU program might be the right first travel team experience. More money doesn’t guarantee better development — fit does. Affordability and sustainability over a multi-year arc matter more than premium pricing on any single program.
Free Basketball Training Evaluation Guide
Download our comprehensive guide with High Point-specific considerations, red flags to watch for, and questions to ask before committing to any program.
High Point Basketball Season: What to Expect
Understanding when different basketball programs run in High Point and the Triad helps families plan without panic. This calendar shows typical timing — not deadlines you must meet.
High School Season (NCHSAA)
Typical Timeline: Tryouts in October, games begin November, NCHSAA playoffs run through late February or early March depending on classification.
What This Means: Your child’s school season is their primary basketball commitment October through February. Private training and AAU preparation happens around this — not instead of it.
AAU / Select Basketball Season
Typical Timeline:
- January–February: Team formation, early tryouts for spring rosters (sometimes overlapping with school season)
- March–April: Spring tournaments begin; Carolinas regional circuit heats up
- April–June: Core travel team season; Charlotte, Raleigh, and mid-Atlantic tournaments
- June–July: Peak summer tournaments; some programs pursue national exposure events
- August–September: Fall leagues wind down; school season preparation begins
Triad Travel Reality: High Point’s central Triad location is actually an advantage for travel teams. Charlotte is 90 minutes south, Raleigh/Durham 75 minutes east, the Virginia border 2 hours north. Many Triad teams compete within a 3-hour radius without requiring flights, keeping costs more manageable than programs based in smaller isolated markets.
Basketball Camps
- May–June: Early summer camps begin; HPU and school-based programs open registration
- June–July: Peak camp season across the Triad; YMCA, HPU, Blue Chip, and Pro Skills all active
- July–August: Final summer opportunities; Blue Chip leagues at Andrews wrap up before fall
Year-Round Municipal Programming
HP Power AAU: The city-run AAU program runs seasonally — tryouts for boys at Southside and girls at Deep River Recreation Center. Contact the Athletics Coordinator for current season registration windows.
Open Play: All six High Point rec centers maintain consistent Monday-Saturday hours year-round, providing baseline court access regardless of what organized programs are in session.
High Point’s Basketball Heritage
High Point is a furniture town. That’s what most people know. What fewer people know is that this city of 120,000 has produced a basketball story that connects a trailblazing NAIA player, a national championship coach, and an NBA All-Star — all through a single institution on a hill overlooking the city.
Gene Littles: Where the Story Starts
In 1965, Gene Littles enrolled at High Point College and became the first African American to live on campus. That sentence alone tells you what kind of courage it required. Littles became a three-time NAIA All-American, the all-time leading scorer in program history, and the player who put High Point basketball on a map most people didn’t know existed. His 1968-69 team went 28-3 and reached the NAIA quarterfinals.
Littles played five professional seasons with the Carolina Cougars in the ABA, then won the 1975 ABA Championship with the Kentucky Colonels. He later became the head coach of the Charlotte Hornets in 1990. Jersey #14 is retired at what is now High Point University. Littles passed away in 2021 — but the thread he started in 1965 runs directly to everything High Point basketball is today.
Tubby Smith: The Letter That Changed Everything
When Gene Littles was a senior at High Point College, he typed letters recruiting a young player from Virginia. Those letters reached a kid named Tubby Smith, who enrolled in 1969. Smith graduated in 1973, met his wife Donna on campus, and built a life and a career that culminated in the 1998 NCAA Championship at Kentucky — making him one of only a handful of coaches in history to win national titles at multiple programs.
Smith returned to High Point University as head coach in 2018, closing a circle that had started with Gene Littles typing those letters at the High Point YMCA. The court in the Qubein Center is named Tubby Smith Court. Smith and his wife donated $1 million to the university. Three-time National Coach of the Year, all of it tied back to High Point.
Bam Adebayo at High Point Christian Academy
In 2015-16, a 5-star recruit played his high school basketball at High Point Christian Academy. Edrice “Bam” Adebayo went to Kentucky, was drafted 14th overall by the Miami Heat in 2017, and is now a two-time NBA All-Star. He walked the same hallways families in the southwestern part of High Point walk today when they’re considering youth basketball options.
None of this means your child is on a path to the NBA. That’s not the point. The point is that High Point has legitimate basketball roots — not Houston or Charlotte roots, but real ones, built over decades by real people. That matters when you’re evaluating whether a basketball culture is genuine or manufactured.
HPU’s 2025 NCAA Tournament
In 2025, the High Point University Panthers made their first-ever NCAA Tournament appearance. The Qubein Center — a $170 million, 5,000-seat arena that opened in 2022 — is where local youth camp on D1 courts in the summer. The convergence of a new facility and a tournament breakthrough gives High Point something most mid-sized cities can’t claim: an active, visible Division I program providing youth training opportunities and aspirational context.
This isn’t Chapel Hill. It’s not Charlotte. But it’s High Point — a furniture town that quietly built a basketball story worth knowing.
Frequently Asked Questions About High Point Basketball Training
The questions High Point and Triad families ask most about youth basketball programs, costs, and timing.
How much does basketball training cost in High Point?
Costs vary significantly by program type. Municipal programs through High Point Parks & Recreation (including HP Power AAU) represent the most affordable entry point. Private basketball training typically runs $40-125/session individually, or $30-75/player for small group work. Summer camps range from $90 (YMCA) to $300/week for D1-facility programs like HPU. AAU and select team fees run $800-2,000 annually, with tournament travel adding $1,500-3,000 or more depending on how far the program travels. Many organizations offer need-based assistance — always ask, it’s rarely advertised prominently.
What’s the difference between using trainers in High Point vs. Greensboro or Winston-Salem?
Practically speaking, the Triad’s compact geography — High Point, Greensboro, and Winston-Salem all within 25 minutes — means many families draw from all three cities. The real question is commute time twice per week across a season. A 20-minute drive to a Greensboro facility is very different from a 20-minute drive on I-40 at 5:30pm. Trainers physically located in High Point (or who come to you, like Balr-style mobile options) eliminate that variable entirely. Triad Basketball Academy and Pro Skills are excellent programs — just account for the drive honestly before committing.
When do AAU basketball tryouts happen in High Point?
Most Triad-area select teams hold tryouts in late January through March, targeting spring tournament season. The city-run HP Power AAU program posts tryout windows on the highpointnc.gov site — boys at Southside Recreation Center, girls at Deep River Recreation Center. Pro Skills Basketball and Blue Chip Basketball Academy both hold spring tryouts for competitive teams. Some programs do rolling admissions or second tryout windows in May or June. Contact organizations directly in December or January to learn their specific scheduling.
What’s the best age to start youth basketball in High Point?
There’s no universal “best” age. YMCA and introductory rec programs serve kids as young as 5-6, focusing on motor skills and having fun with the game. Private skills training typically becomes more productive around ages 8-10, when kids can focus meaningfully on specific technique. Competitive travel teams (AAU) exist at 8U and 9U, but most High Point families wait until 10U or 11U when the commitment level is developmentally appropriate. The most important factor is your child’s genuine interest — not age, not what other families are doing.
Can my child play school basketball AND be on an AAU team in High Point?
Yes, and many High Point players do both. The school season runs October through February, while AAU’s peak season runs March through July — the overlap is limited to February-March when AAU tryouts sometimes coincide with school playoffs. The complication is that some high school coaches have strong opinions about AAU participation during the school season. Talk to your child’s school coach before committing to an AAU program about their expectations. Also be honest about whether your child wants year-round basketball or would benefit from an off-season to recover and pursue other interests.
Is HPU a good resource for youth basketball even if my child isn’t pursuing D1?
Absolutely. HPU’s summer camps and clinics through their Professional and Public Programs (P3) are open to youth regardless of athletic trajectory. Training in the Qubein Center on a genuine D1 court with coaching staff instruction is a legitimately excellent experience for any motivated young player — not just those chasing scholarships. The 2025 NCAA Tournament appearance and Tubby Smith’s legacy give the program credibility that comes from real basketball, not just marketing. Consider HPU camps as a high-quality summer experience first, and any developmental benefit as a bonus.
High Point Basketball Training Options at a Glance
A quick reference for families comparing programs across the 336.
| Training Option | Cost Range | Best For | Time Commitment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Municipal Rec / HP Power AAU | Low-cost; check highpointnc.gov | Beginners, budget-conscious families, first travel team experience | Seasonal; 1-2 practices/week plus games or tournaments |
| Private Training (Individual) | $40-125/session | Targeted skill work, pre-tryout preparation, specific weaknesses | Flexible; typically 1-2 sessions/week |
| Private Training (Small Group) | $30-75/player per session | Cost-effective skill development; consistent reps with peers | 2-4 sessions/week; year-round or seasonal |
| Summer Basketball Camps | $90-300/week | Summer skill-building, first exposure to basketball, childcare with structure | 1-2 week sessions; June-August |
| AAU/Select Travel Teams | $800-2,000+ (plus travel) | Competitive players, tournament experience, college recruitment (older players) | 8-11 months; 2-3 practices/week; weekend tournaments |
Note: Costs represent typical High Point/Triad ranges as of 2026. Many programs offer financial assistance or sliding-scale pricing. Always ask.
Getting Started with Basketball Training in High Point
If you’re new to High Point basketball or just starting your child’s training journey, here’s a practical path forward.
Step 1: Define Your Goals
Are you trying to help your child make their school team? Develop fundamental skills? Play competitively? Stay active? Your goal determines everything else. Many HP families start with the YMCA or HP Power AAU before considering private training. There’s no single right path — clarity about what you want helps you evaluate options without feeling pressured.
Step 2: Know Your Geography
Which part of High Point are you in? Northside near HPU? Southside near Southside Rec? Southwest near HPCA? Your location shapes which rec centers, trainers, and programs are realistically convenient. A program that requires 30 minutes on I-40 twice a week is a different commitment than one 10 minutes away. The Triad’s connected geography is an asset — use it, don’t fight it.
Step 3: Contact 2-3 Options
Use the trainer, camp, and team profiles on this page to identify 2-3 that match your geography, goals, and budget. Reach out using the evaluation questions above. Ask about their approach, experience with your child’s age group, what progress looks like, and total costs. Most programs offer trial sessions or initial consultations before you commit anything significant.
Step 4: Trust Your Instincts
After a few conversations and maybe a trial session, trust your gut. Does your child light up after practice or dread it? Does the trainer communicate clearly with you as a parent? Do the logistics actually work for your family? Sometimes the right fit is the less credentialed option — because your child connects with that coach, or because it’s 12 minutes from your house instead of 28.
Free Basketball Training Evaluation Guide
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