Basketball Trainer

Connect With Trainers, Camps, Select Teams, and Knowledge

  • Find Trainers
  • Camps
  • Teams
  • Online Trainer
    • Drill of The Month
    • ONLINE BASKETBALL TRAINER
  • Training Aids
  • Business Owners
  • Blog
  • Contact
  • Find Trainers
  • Camps
  • Teams
  • Online Trainer
    • Drill of The Month
    • ONLINE BASKETBALL TRAINER
  • Training Aids
  • Business Owners
  • Blog
  • Contact

58 Killer Questions To Ask College Basketball Coaches – Recruit’s Guide

March 20, 2023 By basketballtrainer

58 Questions to Ask A College Basketball Coach

Introduction:

For aspiring student-athletes, understanding the ins and outs of a college athletic program is crucial for achieving success both on and off the field 🏈🎓. To help navigate this process, we’ve compiled a list of 39 essential questions covering various aspects of college life, athletic programs, and personal development. By asking these questions, you will gain insights into coaching philosophy, team culture, and daily expectations, ensuring a well-rounded experience as a student-athlete 🌟.

👋 If you’re a student-athlete striving to conquer the 🎓🏈 college sports world, it’s a given that interacting with college coaches is an inevitable component of the recruitment process. But here’s a secret to help you stay ahead of the game – 🙋‍♂️ ask them questions! Yes, asking thoughtful questions can help you make informed decisions about where to attend college and play sports. Need more convincing? Let me enlighten you with a few reasons why:

First and foremost, asking questions can help you delve deeper into the 🏀 coach’s coaching philosophy and style. You can gain insight into their 🏋️‍♀️ training techniques, 🏃‍♂️ practice regimens, and 🎯 playing strategies. By doing so, you can evaluate if they align with your own goals and aspirations. It’s a slam dunk way to ensure that you’re on the same page with your coach, and that’s an essential ingredient for a winning team. 🏆

In addition, coaches can provide valuable information about the 🎓 academic and 🏆 athletic programs at the school. Ask about the 📚 majors and 🤝 support services offered, and you can determine if the school is a good match for your academic and athletic goals. It’s like hitting the books and the gym at the same time – a win-win situation! 📚🏋️‍♂️

Furthermore, asking questions showcases your seriousness about the recruitment process and demonstrates that you’ve done your research. It’s akin to putting your best foot forward, and that can create a positive impression on the coach. It’s also a chance to build a rapport with your coach and establish a foundation for a successful coach-player relationship. Score! 🤝👍👊

Lastly, asking questions helps you evaluate the fit between the college and the coach. It’s like trying on a pair of shoes before buying them – you want to make sure they fit just right! By inquiring about team culture, academic support services, and campus life, you can determine if the college is a good match for your needs and preferences. 👟💭🤔

So there you have it – asking prospective college coaches questions is a slam dunk strategy to ensure that you make an informed decision about where to attend college and play sports. With a little bit of research and some thoughtful questions, you can score big and have a successful and fulfilling college experience. Now that’s what we call a winning play! 🏆👍🎉

Program Foundations:

  1. What are your program’s core values? 💭
  2. What have you done in the last two weeks to further your commitment to those values? 📈 Core values without constant commitment can be a red flag on focus. 
  3. Why did you decide to become a coach? 🤔  Listen for the passion and commitment in their story.   Hear their “why.”
  4. How would you as a former basketball player describe you as a coach? 👥  Most coaches have likely not been asked this question, and you should be able to feel candor in their response.
  5. What is your overall coaching philosophy? 🧠 Sure it is a big question, but the answer should be simple and concise.   

Team Building and Community Involvement:

  1. What are the team building activities you do every year with your team? 🤝 Coaches should have a smile as they think back on last year’s activities, not just ho hum thru this message. 
  2. What does the team do at the philanthropic level? 🌍 You can followup with question on average  hours
  3. Coach- what are the community services you are involved in? 🏥  Do we walk the walk, or just talk the talk? 
  4. How do athletes make this a better campus? 🏫 
  5. Are athletes fans of their campus too? 

Daily Implications:

  1. What is a typical weekly schedule during the in-season vs. ‘off’ season? 📅
  2. Followup with the question, what other activities are not mandatory, but highly encouraged? Also known as unofficial “captain practices.”
  3. What are the summer obligations?  Christmas Break? Spring Break (hopefully March Madness baby!)
  4. How many study-hall hours do student-athletes complete each week? 📚
  5. Is it mandatory, or only for specific GPA levels? 🎯
  6. What challenges do you see with my specific major and also being a student-athlete? 💼  Nursing, pre -med concentration, engineering students beware.  Many students have arrived on campus only to be told to switch business majors to economics, that nursing isn’t an option because you can’t perform the clinical hours in a two semester sport.  
  7. What athletes do you currently have in my major? 📖  Try to follow up with those athletes, ask the coach permission to touch base with those athletes about their paths. 
  8. Do any of your athletes study abroad?
  9. Do any athletes have interships during the school year?
  10. What athletes were in my major, and have graduated, and how are they doing? 🎓  Most people go to school to become professionals… not pro basketball players.  Keep your eye on the end goals.  
  11. What other academic support do student athletes get?
  12. What is different than the rest of the student body?
  13. Are there any special meal plans for athletes?
  14. Do our practices limit access to dining facility hours?

Travel and Accommodations:

  1. How does the team travel? ✈️🚌
  2. How do student-athletes work through missing class for away trips? 🎒
  3. How do professors feel about that?
  4. Do those count as absences or excused absences? 📚
  5. What out of conference travel plans do you have coming up the next couple of years? 
  6. What housing do you recommend?
  7. Will I need a car? 🏠🚗
  8. How far are away games in and out of conference? If travel is by bus, does the bus have appropriate lighting and satellite internet service so studying can be done? 🛣️

Leadership and Team Dynamics:

  1. What activities do you regularly do to develop leadership in your student-athletes? 💪
  2. What intangibles are you desiring in your team? 🔮
  3. Who was your favorite leader of your past or current teams and why? 
  4. What are the leadership models and books you have your team learn and embrace?
  5. What does it take to be an GREAT player and leader here? Like Hall of Fame great? 📚
  6. What do you expect of your captains?

Recruitment and Future Roles:

  1. What are your recruiting needs for my class in terms of position and leadership? 🌟
  2. How many players do you have a history of keeping on your team? 
  3. How many do you want on the roster in the future?  
  4. When players commit here are there any more tryouts upon arrival? 
  5. What role do you see me playing as a freshman for the team? In the long term? 🥇
  6. What position, offensive skills, and mindset do you see me in for the team? ⚽

Preparation for Success:

  1. What other paperwork do I need to complete for admissions & financial aid? (CSS as example)
  2. What other paperwork do I need to complete for the athletic training staff? 🏋️
  3. What other paperwork do I need to complete for NCAA/NAIA Compliance and the Eligibility Center? 🏆

Resources and Development:

  1. What mental health resources and counseling do you have for basketball players? Sports psychology? 🧘‍♂️
  2. Tell me about your prehab, conditioning, and rehab philosophies as a coach? 🏃‍♂️
  3. How do you feel about players getting medical opinions outside of the trainer’s office? 🚑
  4. What stats are important to you for my projected position, why?
  5. What are benchmark tests in strength and conditioning?  Skills?   What are the team records?
  6. What modalities do we have easy access to in the athletic training offices? 🩹
  7. What expertise are available specific to the strength and conditioning of our basketball team? What is their background specific to basketball? 🏀 
  8. Are there personalized plans to help each player magnify their strengths and improve their weaknesses? 
  9. Can you be candid with me Coach… I can take it… what about my game or personality has you concerned about me being a great player here?  Listen, write down the answers, and then clarify by repeating them.  Now ask: what would you have me do to go all in on developing on those challenges tomorrow?”
  10. If asked what other college coaches are you talking to and where do we rank… then I would answer and share the other schools and say you are still processing this meeting but love what you hear (if you do) but I would then flip the table and ask where you rank on their recruiting chart?
  11. As you close, tell the coach how grateful you are for their time, and ask, what are the next steps for “us” here?

Best Questions Received by College Coaches

“What is your expectation of the team captain?” She was a 17 year old player, who our club team had seen multiple times during the previous few seasons. Highly intelligent player.
I had already envisioned that role for her, if she came on board. She became our captain in her sophomore year and confidently guided the team through her senior year. -Coach Larry  Simpson

A future hall of famer at Hiram College, Michael McDevitt, said he was just excited to come in, learn as a freshman, and earn the right to play. He started as a sophomore and thereafter.
-Coach Tim Rice

Is there academic help if I’m struggling in a class? – Coach Gerald Bleau

What does your vision for me look like inside your program?
What can I do in order to set myself apart from other potential players?
What does your practice schedule look like?
What does self development time outside of practice look like? ( Basktballtrainer.com Team loves this one!)
– Coach Bryant Hedgeman

Questions Not To Ask College Basketball Coaches

  1. How much playing time do you se me getting next year?   A better question to ask would be “Can you tell me about your needs next year?”  Then state that you are ready to come in and learn and reference a couple of strengths and stories related to the needs the coach expresses. 
  2. Can you give me a scholarship?   This is typically not a first or second conversation topic.   And when you get to conversation 3, try phrasing it like… “Coach, obviously I love the idea of playing here… can you talk to me a little about the finances of what that looks like?
  3. Don’t ask questions you could answer yourself with some elbow grease and Google.  It shows a lack of interest in the school.  
    1. Do you have _____ major? 
    2. What was your record last year? 
    3. Who is in your conference? 
    4. What nights do we play? 
  4. Skip questions about dating, parties, and other topics.  If those are important to you, find out more online or at the admissions office, or from a non basketball student.  
  5. Why do you need to speak to my current high school or club coach? (this would be a red flag for sure)
  6. What kind of gear and swag do we get?

Do not ask any of these questions on the first visit.  And some never.  Proceed with caution.

 

Conclusion:

Asking these essential questions will empower student-athletes to make informed decisions about their college athletic experience, ensuring a successful and fulfilling journey. By understanding coaching philosophies, team culture, and daily expectations, you will be better prepared to excel in your sport and your academic pursuits, creating a solid foundation for your future endeavors 🎓🏆.

Filed Under: Basketball Parenting, Basketball Player Development, Basketball Trainer Blog, blog

Welcome to Basketball Trainer -

your connection to expert & passionate basketball trainers in both your city and online. We are committed to your basketball success.

Basketball Trainer Swag and Tshirts
find basketball camps

Basketball Camps

🏀 Basketball camps are a slam dunk for players of all skill levels! Whether you're a rookie or a pro, these educational programs provide training, guidance, and practical experience in the sport. 🎓 The duration of camps can vary from day-long to week-long overnight programs, tailored to suit different age groups and skill levels. Enrolling in a basketball camp is a smart move … Click Here To Learn More...

Grit Summary for Basketball

“Grit” Book Summary and Tips for Trainers and Players

Summary of “Grit” by Angela Duckworth Main Topic: “Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance” by Angela Duckworth is a book that focuses on the importance of perseverance and determination in achieving long-term goals. The book emphasizes the need to develop “grit” as a key factor in success, rather than just talent or intelligence. Key […]

Mindset by Dweck Summary for Basketball

Growth Mindset For Basketball Training Businesses

Summary of “Mindset” by Carol Dweck Main Topic “Mindset” by Carol Dweck explores the concept of mindset and its impact on our personal and professional lives. Key Ideas and Arguments Individuals have one of two mindsets: a fixed mindset or a growth mindset. A fixed mindset sees intelligence and abilities as fixed traits, while a […]

Foam Rolling for Basketball Players

Foam Rolling Your Way To Performance in Basketball

The Benefits of Foam Rolling for Basketball Performance The Introduction Foam rolling for basketball is a self-myofascial release technique that has become increasingly popular in the fitness world, and exercise restoration community. It involves using a foam roller to apply pressure to certain areas of the basketball athlete’s body, helping to relieve muscle tension and […]

Practical Modern Basketball Book Summary

Practical Modern Basketball Book Summary

Summary: 🏀 Practical Modern Basketball by John Wooden 📚 Main Topic or Theme of the Book 📖 Practical Modern Basketball is a 🏀 basketball coaching and strategy book, written by legendary coach John Wooden. Key Ideas or Arguments Presented 💡 The book presents Wooden’s philosophy of 🏀 basketball coaching, which emphasizes the importance of fundamentals, […]

Basketball Rebounding Drills To Increase Skills & Performance

Basketball Rebounding Drills: Boost Skills & Performance

Boost your skills with Basketball Rebounding Drills! Master fundamentals, increase strength, and improve agility for top court performance.

Executive Function for Basketball Players

Executive Function & Basketball: Level Up Your Game

Boost your game with Executive Function for Basketball Players, improving mental skills to unlock potential and maximize on-court performance.

How to operate the clock at a basketball game

How to Operate the Clock at a Basketball Game (Like a Pro)

Operating the clock at a basketball game is a very important (but thankless)  job. It requires: A focus on the clock and the referee, at the expense of enjoying the game. A basic understanding of the rules of basketball. The ability to handle stressful situations. The ability to be impartial, honest, and admit mistakes. The […]

TRX Strength Training for Basketball

TRX Strength Training for Basketball: Elevate Your Performance

Discover the benefits of TRX Strength Training for Basketball and how it can elevate your performance, develop explosive power, and improve core stability.

Mental Preparation for Basketball Tournaments

Basketball Tournament Mental Preparation: Guide & Tips

Master Basketball Tournament Mental Preparation with tips for players, coaches & families to ensure success and a strong mental game on the court.

Stuff Book Summary for Basketball Players

“Stuff” Book Summary for Basketball Players

Summary of Stuff by Dick Devenzio 🏀 Main Topic or Theme Stuff by Dick Devenzio is a book that explores the various aspects of basketball, focusing on the intricacies of the game and providing insights into what it takes to excel as a player, a coach, and a team. 🏆 Key Ideas or Arguments The […]

Basketball Arm Sleeves For Kids

Basketball Arm Sleeves for Kids: Fashion or Function?

Discover the benefits of basketball arm sleeves for kids, how to choose the right one, and care tips to boost performance on the court.

Basketball Bday Party Ideas

Basketball Bday Party Ideas: Slam Dunks for All Ages

When it comes to celebrating a special day for an ambitious basketball player, Basketball Bday Party Ideas can take the celebration to new heights. A successful basketball-themed birthday party can be a great way for players to strengthen their relationships with loved ones, while having fun and celebrating the game. In this blog post, we […]

Best Basketball Socks - Guide

Best Basketball Socks: Boost Performance and Comfort (Seriously Complete Guide)

Discover the Best Basketball Socks to boost your performance and comfort on the court, featuring top brands, cushioning, compression, and low-cut options.

Basketball Burnout and Over-training

Avoiding Burnout and Overtraining in Basketball: Recognize the Signs & How to Avoid Them

Prevent athlete burnout with our Burnout and Overtraining in Basketball: Guide To Avoid and Recognize The Signs for optimal sports performance.

Basketball Parenting

Basketball Parenting: Building A Strong Support System

Building a Strong Support System for Your Ambitious Basketball Player: A Parent’s Guide” – Unlock expert tips on coaching, training plans, and mental toughness.

Basketball Speed Drills

Basketball Speed Drills: Essential To Accelerating Your Performance

Are your ready to unleash your inner speedster beast and dominate the court with these proven basketball speed drills? Great! Here is a overview list of some classic speed drills that can help improve your basketball skills: Line drills: These drills involve running back and forth across the court, usually using lines or cones as markers. Examples include shuttle runs, suicides, and figure … ...Click Link To Read More

How To Get On An AAU Basketball Team

How To Get On An AAU Basketball Team or Select Club

Are you a ambitious and hungry basketball player who wants to play for an AAU basketball team program?  Are you the parents of a player who wants more?  We got you... read on and soak this up! The BasketballTrainer.com Insider's Guide will tell you how to get on an AAU team and challenge yourself with the best players in your area and beyond so you can accelerate your learning curve and … Click Link To Read More

Basketball Parenting Tips

Basketball Parents: 17 Actions You Can Take For Players Right Now

Being a parent of a basketball player is no easy feat. Whether you are a basketball mom or dad, it is important that you are there to support your son or daughter in the best way possible. This article will help guide basketball parents on how they can be the perfect supporter of their child right now. From understanding the fundamentals of the game to creating an atmosphere conducive to success, … Click here to read more...

Basketball Tryout Tips To Make the team

Basketball Tryout Tips To Make The Team (Guide)

Our Basketball Tryouts Tips Guide can help you overcome the often nerve-wracking nature of tryout day.  Remember we are rarely nervous about activities that we don't love. Channel your nerves as excitement not as anxiety. You want to make sure you're doing everything you can to make the team. Here are a few tips to help you put your best foot forward at your next basketball tryout. Basketball

WELCOME TO BASKETBALL TRAINER…

your connection to expert & passionate basketball trainers, basketball teams, basketball camps and all basketball products and apps designed to improve your game.  We are committed to your basketball success.

Meet our team and learn more about our mission.  Click here…

Featured Course

basketball course of the week

There are many basketball courses for all skills, ages, budgets and goals.   We help you sift thru all the garbage to find the goals for each of … Learn more...

Featured Drill

 We Hope You Enjoyed The Basketball Trainer Drill of The Month Special Thanks To Friend USC Coach Chris Capko for his excellent teaching and my … Learn more...

Featured Product / App

The BasketballTrainer.com team is comprised of former college &  pro players and coaches focused on the needs of American youth basketball … Learn more...

Have A Basketball Biz?

Our team gathers basketball training resources from basketball trainers and in some cases for basketball trainers and their students.  Stay tuned for … Learn More

AustinYouthBasketball.com
BasketballHQ.com
CoachTube.com
CoachingBasketball.com
BasketballCoach.org
BuzzworthyBasketballMarketing.com

© Copyright 2023 Basketball Trainer

Design by BuzzworthyBasketballMarketing.com

Privacy Policy