Advertise on podcast: PREP Athletics Basketball Podcast

The 2026 prep school basketball landscape is changing, particularly when it comes to college recruiting exposure, prep school basketball recruiting trends, and how players are evaluated. PREP Athletics founder Cory Heitz shares firsthand observations from his latest visits to prep schools across the Northeast, discussing what players and parents should understand about the opportunities and challenges facing student-athletes. College recruiting exposure is evolving as NIL and the transfer portal continue to influence how college coaches recruit. Cory explains why college coach attendance at traditional prep school open gyms has declined, how June scholastic basketball showcases are becoming increasingly important, and what families should ask programs about their recruiting and exposure opportunities. Beyond recruiting, Cory discusses his visits to schools including Albany Academy, South Kent, Hotchkiss, Worcester Academy, Rectory School, Indian Mountain, Rumsey Hall, Fay School, and Hillside. He shares his thoughts on prep school basketball leagues, NEPSAC regulations, junior boarding school opportunities, and why finding the right school and coach matters more than competing in a particular league. This October 2026 Prep School Basketball State of the Union provides a firsthand look at the evolving prep school environment. Whether you're considering a prep school, exploring junior boarding school basketball, or evaluating college recruiting opportunities, Cory offers practical guidance on choosing the right path without assuming any school can guarantee a particular outcome. ⏰ Timestamps: 00:26 - State of the Union Introduction 00:51 - Prep School Visits and Relationships 04:27 - Junior Boarding School Opportunities 05:33 - Prep School Basketball Leagues and Rules 07:27 - Choosing the Right School and Coach 08:14 - College Recruiting and Exposure 09:24 - June Scholastic Showcases 10:47 - Prep School Placement and Decisions 12:12 - Wrapping Up 📌 Key Topics: 2026 Prep School Basketball Landscape: Cory's firsthand perspective from recent school visits and conversations with prep school coaches.College Recruiting Exposure Changes in 2026: How NIL, the transfer portal, and evolving recruiting practices are influencing college coach attendance at prep school open gyms.Prep School Basketball Recruiting Trends: How programs are adapting to changes in college recruiting and where players can gain meaningful exposure.June Scholastic Basketball Showcases: Why June live-period events are increasingly important for college basketball evaluations and what families should ask coaches about participation.Prep School Basketball Leagues and NEPSAC Rules: The differences between prep school leagues, Cory's concerns about workout restrictions, and the importance of player development.Junior Boarding School Basketball Opportunities: Visits to Rectory School, Indian Mountain, Rumsey Hall, Fay School, and Hillside, and the structure these schools provide younger student-athletes.Choosing the Right Prep School and Coach: Why academic fit, coaching relationships, development opportunities, and school environment should guide a family's decision.Prep School Basketball Placement: Understanding uncertainty in recruiting, setting realistic expectations, and making informed decisions about the prep school experience.🏀 About Cory Heitz: Cory Heitz is the founder of PREP Athletics and host of the PREP Athletics Podcast. Through his work with basketball players and families, Cory helps student-athletes navigate the prep school process and identify programs that align with their academic, athletic, and personal goals. Cory regularly visits prep schools, meets with coaches and admissions staff, and builds relationships with programs to better understand what each school offers. In this solo State of the Union episode, Cory shares observations from his latest school visits and conversations, providing a firsthand perspective on the changing prep school basketball landscape and college recruiting environment in 2026. 🏆 About PREP Athletics: At PREP Athletics, we help young athletes and their families understand the prep school path and how it can create better opportunities in the classroom, on the court, and in the college recruiting process. We talk about prep schools, post-grad years, reclassing, recruiting, academics, AAU, NCAA updates, and the decisions families need to understand before choosing a path. Our goal is to help players find the right fit, not just any placement. We share honest, experience-based guidance for families navigating prep school basketball, college recruiting, exposure, development, and the steps that can help student-athletes move closer to their goals. Learn more at PREP Athletics, contact us if your family needs help navigating the prep-school process, and subscribe for more practical prep basketball and recruiting guidance. 🔗 Connect with PREP Athletics: Website | https://www.prepathletics.com Email | [email protected] X | https://twitter.com/PREP_Athletics Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep.athletics/ Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/PrepAthletics TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@prep_athletics LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/prep-athletics 🔖 Subscribe to the PREP Athletics Podcast: iTunes | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prep-athletics-podcast/id1546265809?uo=4 Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/6CAKbX...

Junior boarding school basketball recruiting gives families another path to consider before the traditional prep-school years. Rob Roy, Head Coach of Rectory School Basketball, joins Cory Heitz to explain how junior boarding school works, what type of student-athlete tends to thrive there, and how the experience can prepare players for the next stage of prep school basketball. Rob Roy Podcast Edit Rob explains why the process works best when the decision is kid-driven, how reclassing can give young athletes additional time to mature, and why two years at a junior boarding school can provide more value than arriving for only one season. He also walks through the structured daily routine at Rectory and the expectations placed on players both on and off the court. Rob Roy Podcast Edit Rob Roy Podcast Edit The conversation also covers how Rectory Basketball uses older competition and a flexible schedule to challenge its players and put ninth graders in front of schools that may fit their academic, basketball, and personal goals. Rob discusses earning playing time through character and preparation, handling different physical maturity levels, homesickness, and the relationships players carry with them after leaving Rectory. Rob Roy Podcast Edit Rob Roy Podcast Edit For parents researching junior boarding school for basketball, reclassing, athlete development, or the transition into prep school basketball, this episode provides a practical look at what the pathway actually involves. ⏰ Timestamps: 1:28 - Rob Roy’s Basketball Background 2:59 - What Is a Junior Boarding School? 5:16 - Rob’s Prep School Experience 7:02 - Who Is a Good Fit for Junior Boarding School? 8:39 - Reclassing and Two Years at Rectory 10:55 - Who Junior Boarding School Is Not For 12:48 - A Day in the Life at Rectory 16:54 - Preparing Players for Prep School 20:31 - Rectory’s Schedule and Competition 25:19 - Choosing the Right Prep School 27:14 - Earning Playing Time 29:31 - Developing Players at Different Maturity Levels 31:16 - Handling Homesickness 33:34 - Success Stories and Lasting Impact 37:34 - Quick Hitters 39:24 - Wrapping Up 📌 Key Topics: • Junior boarding school basketball recruiting and development • Junior boarding school for basketball players and families • Reclassing before traditional prep school • Kid-driven vs. parent-driven boarding-school decisions • Developing through competition against older players • Earning playing time through character and preparation • Matching athletes with the right prep school environment • Structure, independence, homesickness, and student development 🏀 About Rob Roy: Rob Roy is the Head Basketball Coach at Rectory School, a junior boarding school serving grades five through nine. In the conversation, Rob explains that Rectory works with students from around the world and focuses on preparing them for the transition to secondary schools. He also discusses his own background as a college basketball player and his experience attending prep school before beginning his coaching career. Rob Roy Podcast Edit Rob Roy Podcast Edit 🔗 Contact Rob Roy: Wesbite | https://www.rectoryschool.org/ X | https://x.com/Coach_RobRoy Rectory IG | https://www.instagram.com/rectoryathletics/ 🏆 About PREP Athletics: At PREP Athletics, we help young athletes and their families understand the prep school path and how it can create better opportunities in the classroom, on the court, and in the college recruiting process. We talk about prep schools, post-grad years, reclassing, recruiting, academics, AAU, NCAA updates, and the decisions families need to understand before choosing a path. Our goal is to help players find the right fit, not just any placement. We share honest, experience-based guidance for families navigating prep school basketball, college recruiting, exposure, development, and the steps that can help student-athletes move closer to their goals. Learn more at PREP Athletics, contact us if your family needs help navigating the prep-school process, and subscribe for more prep basketball and recruiting guidance. 🔗 Connect with PREP Athletics: Website | https://www.prepathletics.com Email | [email protected] X | https://twitter.com/PREP_Athletics Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep.athletics/ Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/PrepAthletics TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@prep_athletics LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/prep-athletics 🔖 Subscribe to the PREP Athletics Podcast: iTunes | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prep-athletics-podcast/id1546265809?uo=4 Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/6CAKbXFiIOhoHinzsReYbJ Amazon | https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/3c37179d-3371-47f9-9d97-fd569e8802a7/prep-athletics-basketball-podcast Website | https://prepathletics.com/prep-athletics-podcast/ #PREPAthletics #RectorySchoolBasketball #JuniorBoardingSchool #PrepSchoolBasketball #BasketballRecruiting #Reclassing #BasketballDevelopment 🏆 About PREP Athletics: At PREP Athletics, we help young athletes and their families understand the prep school path and how it can create better opportunities in the classroom, on the court, and in the college recruiting process. We talk about prep schools, post-grad years, reclassing, recruiting, academics, AAU, NCAA updates, and the decisions families need to understand before choosing a path. Our goal is to help players find the right fit, not just any placement. We share honest, experience-based guidance for families navigating prep school basketball, college recruiting, exposure, development, and the steps that can help student-athletes move closer to their goals. Learn more at PREP Athletics, contact us if your family needs help navigating the prep-school process, and subscribe for more practical prep basketball and recruiting guidance. 🔗 Connect with PREP Athletics: Website | https://www.prepathletics.com Email | [email protected] X | https://twitter.com/PREP_Athletics Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep.athletics/ Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/PrepAthletics TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@prep_athletics LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/prep-athletics 🔖 Subscribe to the PREP Athletics Podcast: iTunes | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prep-athletics-podcast/id1546265809?uo=4 Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/6CAKbX...

Transfer portal and high school recruiting are colliding in ways that are changing how basketball families need to evaluate college opportunities. Ryan Silver breaks down what players should consider as college coaches increasingly have experienced transfer options available alongside high school recruits. Ryan, Founder / CEO of All In Elites, brings years of experience across grassroots basketball, high school coaching, player placement, and national basketball events. In this conversation with Cory Heitz, he explains why finding the right level can matter more than chasing the biggest name, why players need to get on the floor, and why the assumption that everyone should be a D1 player creates unrealistic expectations. They also get into how the transfer portal is changing high school recruiting, NIL, D1 vs. D2 basketball recruiting, player rankings, exposure events, what college coaches actually evaluate, academics, character, toughness, and the role physical development should play for younger athletes. Ryan’s advice is consistently centered on finding the right fit rather than chasing status. For players and parents trying to understand high school basketball recruiting in the current transfer portal era, this episode offers a practical look at where opportunities still exist and how to make smarter decisions about AAU, exposure, college level, and development. ⏰ Timestamps: 2:13 - Ryan Silver’s Basketball Background 4:10 - Choosing the Right Team and Fit 5:44 - The D1 Recruiting Misconception 9:16 - What College Coaches Look For 10:59 - The Problem With Player Rankings 12:58 - Wasting Money on Exposure 15:28 - Transfer Portal and NIL Recruiting 18:52 - Academics and the Parent Role 21:05 - Developing a Young College Prospect 22:30 - Best Fit vs. NIL Money 23:30 - Quick Hitters 25:03 - Attitude of Gratitude 26:21 - Wrapping Up 📌 Key Topics: • Transfer portal and high school recruiting • How the transfer portal affects high school basketball recruiting • Choosing the right AAU team and basketball environment • D1 basketball recruiting myths and realistic college levels • Whether college coaches care about player rankings • Basketball exposure, camps, and trusted recruiting relationships • NIL, college fit, and choosing opportunity over status • Character, toughness, academics, and long-term development 🏀 About Ryan Silver: Ryan Silver is Founder / CEO of All In Elites and has spent years working throughout high school and grassroots basketball. His coaching background includes El Segundo High School, Lawndale High School, Rolling Hills Prep, and Sierra Canyon, where he was part of the program’s early success. He later built West Coast Elite and now works with Attitude of Gratitude on basketball events and the AOG Power 32 prep school league. 🔗 Contact Ryan Silver: IG | https://www.instagram.com/coachryansilver/?hl=en X | https://x.com/RyanSilver1?lang=en AIE IG | https://www.instagram.com/allineliteua/?hl=en AIE Site | https://allineliteua.com/ 🏆 About PREP Athletics: At PREP Athletics, we help young athletes and their families understand the prep school path and how it can create better opportunities in the classroom, on the court, and in the college recruiting process. We talk about prep schools, post-grad years, reclassing, recruiting, academics, AAU, NCAA updates, and the decisions families need to understand before choosing a path. Our goal is to help players find the right fit, not just any placement. We share honest, experience-based guidance for families navigating prep school basketball, college recruiting, exposure, development, and the steps that can help student-athletes move closer to their goals. Learn more at PREP Athletics, contact us if your family needs help navigating the prep-school process, and subscribe for more practical prep basketball and recruiting guidance. 🔗 Connect with PREP Athletics: Website | https://www.prepathletics.com Email | [email protected] X | https://twitter.com/PREP_Athletics Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep.athletics/ Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/PrepAthletics TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@prep_athletics LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/prep-athletics 🔖 Subscribe to the PREP Athletics Podcast: iTunes | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prep-athletics-podcast/id1546265809?uo=4 Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/6CAKbX...

Playing hard vs competing basketball is one of the clearest distinctions Coach Brian Fruscio makes in this conversation about Canterbury School Basketball. Playing hard is expected. Fruscio explains why truly competing, defending, rebounding, making winning plays, and executing what coaches ask can separate a player. Donate to help Coach Fuscio on the road to recovery:  https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-coach-brian-fruscios-road-to-recovery Brian Fruscio joins Cory Heitz to explain how prep basketball can prepare players for what college basketball actually demands. They discuss growing your role from the end of the bench, earning a coach’s trust, getting noticed without relying on scoring, handling demanding coaching, and developing habits that translate to the next level. The conversation also covers Canterbury School Basketball, reclassing, post-grad options, college placement, gym access, strength and conditioning, academic recruiting, finding the right school fit, NEPSAC competition, the changing prep-school model, what it takes to play guard at the Division I level, and what Fruscio learned from coaching Andre Jackson Jr. at Albany Academy. For players and parents evaluating prep school basketball, this conversation offers a practical look at what development and college readiness actually require beyond exposure, points, and recruiting attention. ⏰ Timestamps: 0:00 - Supporting Coach Brian Fruscio 2:21 - Brian Fruscio’s Basketball Background 3:51 - Choosing Ithaca 5:08 - Starting a Coaching Career 6:28 - New York City Basketball 7:43 - Preparing Players for College Basketball 9:47 - Building Albany Academy Basketball 12:27 - Moving to Canterbury School 14:16 - What Makes Canterbury Different 16:16 - Reclassing at Canterbury 19:12 - Canterbury Basketball Roster Structure 20:43 - College Placement, Exposure and Competing 25:44 - Strength Training and Multi-Sport Athletes 27:51 - Gym and Training Access 30:25 - Post-Grad Academic Requirements 32:08 - High-Academic Recruiting and Finding Fit 36:00 - Does NEPSAC Class Matter? 37:48 - The Future of Prep School Basketball 42:24 - What It Takes to Be a D1 Guard 45:03 - What Made Andre Jackson Special 49:13 - Quick Hitters 53:02 - Wrapping Up 📌 Key Topics: • Playing hard vs competing basketball • Growing your role and earning a coach’s trust • Preparing players for college basketball practices • Recruiting exposure beyond scoring points • Canterbury School Basketball player development • Reclassing, post-grad years and prep-school fit • D1 guard development and understanding game speed • Andre Jackson Jr.’s development at Albany Academy 🏀 About Brian Fruscio: Brian Fruscio is the head coach of Canterbury School Basketball. His coaching background includes college experience and a long tenure at Albany Academy before moving to Canterbury. Throughout the conversation, Fruscio emphasizes preparing players for college basketball by teaching them how to compete, execute, handle demanding coaching, understand their role, and contribute to winning. 🔗 Contact Brian Fruscio: Email | [email protected] LinkedIn | https://www.instagram.com/coachfrusc/ Instagram https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-fruscio-57729214/ Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/brian.fruscio/ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cburyboysbball/ X | https://x.com/cburyboysbball 🏆 About PREP Athletics: At PREP Athletics, we help young athletes and their families understand the prep school path and how it can create better opportunities in the classroom, on the court, and in the college recruiting process. We talk about prep schools, post-grad years, reclassing, recruiting, academics, AAU, NCAA updates, and the decisions families need to understand before choosing a path. Our goal is to help players find the right fit, not just any placement. We share honest, experience-based guidance for families navigating prep school basketball, college recruiting, exposure, development, and the steps that can help student-athletes move closer to their goals. Learn more about PREP Athletics at prepathletics.com. If your family needs help navigating the prep-school process, contact us to discuss your options, and subscribe for more prep basketball and recruiting guidance. 🔗 Connect with PREP Athletics: Website | https://www.prepathletics.com Email | [email protected] X | https://twitter.com/PREP_Athletics Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep.athletics/ Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/PrepAthletics TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@prep_athletics LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/prep-athletics 🔖 Subscribe to the PREP Athletics Podcast: iTunes | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prep-athletics-podcast/id1546265809?uo=4 Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/6CAKbXFiIOhoHinzsReYbJ Amazon | https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/3c37179d-3371-47f9-9d97-fd569e8802a7/prep-athletics-basketball-podcast Website | https://prepathletics.com/prep-athletics-podcast/ #PREPAthletics #CanterburySchoolBasketball #PrepSchoolBasketball #BasketballDevelopment #CollegeBasketball #BasketballRecruiting 🏆 About PREP Athletics: At PREP Athletics, we help young athletes and their families understand the prep school path and how it can create better opportunities in the classroom, on the court, and in the college recruiting process. We talk about prep schools, post-grad years, reclassing, recruiting, academics, AAU, NCAA updates, and the decisions families need to understand before choosing a path. Our goal is to help players find the right fit, not just any placement. We share honest, experience-based guidance for families navigating prep school basketball, college recruiting, exposure, development, and the steps that can help student-athletes move closer to their goals. Learn more at PREP Athletics, contact us if your family needs help navigating the prep-school process, and subscribe for more practical prep basketball and recruiting guidance. 🔗 Connect with PREP Athletics: Website | https://www.prepathletics.com Email | [email protected] X | https://twitter.com/PREP_Athletics Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep.athletics/ Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/PrepAthletics TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@prep_athletics LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/prep-athletics 🔖 Subscribe to the PREP Athletics Podcast: iTunes | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prep-athletics-podcast/id1546265809?uo=4 Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/6CAKbX...

Developing the whole student athlete is at the center of Tara Brisson’s approach at Tilton School Basketball. After 18 years at Tilton, Brisson explains why her program focuses on helping players grow as people, students, and basketball players rather than treating development as only an on-court process. Brisson breaks down how Tilton prepares players for college basketball through strength and conditioning, fundamental skill development, and a training structure designed to resemble the college game. She also explains why playing time is earned, why toughness and defense can separate D1 guards, and how transparency shapes her approach with players and families. For players and parents considering prep school, reclassing, or a post-grad year, this conversation also explores college placement, NCAA eligibility, academic support, recruiting fit, and the value of spending more time developing in the right environment. Brisson shares why choosing the best fit matters more than chasing the school that gives a player the most attention. ⏰ Timestamps: 00:01:33 - Tara Brisson’s Basketball Background 00:03:54 - Tilton School and Girls Basketball 00:06:13 - Tilton’s Championship Success 00:07:47 - How Prep School Basketball Has Changed 00:09:19 - Player Development at Tilton 00:11:16 - Earning Playing Time 00:12:59 - College Placement at Tilton 00:15:17 - College Counseling and NCAA Eligibility 00:17:02 - What It Takes to Be a D1 Guard 00:19:19 - College Recruiting Mistakes 00:20:45 - Reclassing vs. a Post-Grad Year 00:22:29 - Post-Grad Academics at Tilton 00:24:38 - Extra Training and Facility Access 00:26:16 - The Caitlin Clark Effect 00:27:31 - CrossFit, Coaching, and Leadership 00:28:38 - Quick Hitters 00:30:34 - Wrapping Up 📌 Key Topics: • Developing the whole student athlete at Tilton School Basketball • Preparing players for college basketball through strength, skills, and fundamentals • Earning playing time through work ethic, toughness, and competition • Finding the right college recruiting fit instead of chasing attention or status • Toughness, defense, and coachability for D1 guards • College placement, counseling, and NCAA eligibility • Reclassing versus completing a post-grad year • Girls prep school basketball development and opportunity 🏀 About Tara Brisson: Tara Brisson has been at Tilton School for 18 years and leads the girls basketball program. During her tenure, Tilton has won 15 Lakes Region championships, eight New England prep school championships, and three national prep school championships. 🔗 Contact Tara Brisson: Email | [email protected] Website | https://tiltonschool.org/athletics/team/girls-basketball-varsity-2025-26/ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/coachbrisson/ X | https://x.com/TaraBrisson Tilton Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/tiltongvbb/ Tilton X | https://x.com/TiltonGVHoops 🏆 About PREP Athletics: At PREP Athletics, we help young athletes and their families understand the prep school path and how it can create better opportunities in the classroom, on the court, and in the college recruiting process. We talk about prep schools, post-grad years, reclassing, recruiting, academics, AAU, NCAA updates, and the decisions families need to understand before choosing a path. Our goal is to help players find the right fit, not just any placement. We share honest, experience-based guidance for families navigating prep school basketball, college recruiting, exposure, development, and the steps that can help student-athletes move closer to their goals. Learn more about PREP Athletics at prepathletics.com, contact us if your family needs help navigating the prep-school process, and subscribe for more prep basketball and recruiting guidance. 🔗 Connect with PREP Athletics: Website | https://www.prepathletics.com Email | [email protected] X | https://twitter.com/PREP_Athletics Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep.athletics/ Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/PrepAthletics TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@prep_athletics LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/prep-athletics 🔖 Subscribe to the PREP Athletics Podcast: iTunes | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prep-athletics-podcast/id1546265809?uo=4 Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/6CAKbXFiIOhoHinzsReYbJ Amazon | https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/3c37179d-3371-47f9-9d97-fd569e8802a7/prep-athletics-basketball-podcast Website | https://prepathletics.com/prep-athletics-podcast/ #PREPAthletics #TiltonSchoolBasketball #StudentAthleteDevelopment #PrepSchoolBasketball #GirlsBasketball #CollegeBasketballRecruiting 🏆 About PREP Athletics: At PREP Athletics, we help young athletes and their families understand the prep school path and how it can create better opportunities in the classroom, on the court, and in the college recruiting process. We talk about prep schools, post-grad years, reclassing, recruiting, academics, AAU, NCAA updates, and the decisions families need to understand before choosing a path. Our goal is to help players find the right fit, not just any placement. We share honest, experience-based guidance for families navigating prep school basketball, college recruiting, exposure, development, and the steps that can help student-athletes move closer to their goals. Learn more at PREP Athletics, contact us if your family needs help navigating the prep-school process, and subscribe for more practical prep basketball and recruiting guidance. 🔗 Connect with PREP Athletics: Website | https://www.prepathletics.com Email | [email protected] X | https://twitter.com/PREP_Athletics Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep.athletics/ Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/PrepAthletics TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@prep_athletics LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/prep-athletics 🔖 Subscribe to the PREP Athletics Podcast: iTunes | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prep-athletics-podcast/id1546265809?uo=4 Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/6CAKbX...

Development through elite basketball competition is central to Austin Burnette’s philosophy at Hargrave Basketball. Austin explains why practicing against talented teammates, earning playing time, and facing strong competition can prepare players for the demands of college basketball. Austin Burnette, head coach and former Hargrave Military Academy player, joins Cory Heitz to discuss basketball development vs. playing time, deep roster basketball exposure, military structure, college placement, and what coaches expect from prospective college players. He also explains how Hargrave works to bridge the physicality and speed gaps that often challenge college freshmen. Players and parents will hear practical guidance about choosing the right prep environment, competing for minutes on a talented team, creating recruiting opportunities, communicating with college coaches, and deciding between reclassing and a post-grad year. The conversation also examines how parents can support or potentially damage a player’s recruitment. ⏰ Timestamps: 2:07 - Austin’s Basketball Journey 3:43 - Competing With D1 Talent 5:57 - What Makes Hargrave Different 7:02 - Life and Fit at Hargrave 10:04 - Hargrave Player Development 12:20 - Earning Playing Time 14:35 - College Placement 15:48 - What College Coaches Look For 16:49 - What It Takes to Be a D1 Guard 18:27 - Getting College Coaches’ Attention 20:21 - Recruiting Successes and Misses 21:54 - Recruiting Mistakes and Parents 25:13 - Reclassing vs. a Post-Grad Year 28:10 - Hargrave vs. New England Prep Schools 29:23 - Quick Hitters 31:00 - Wrapping Up 📌 Key Topics: • Development through elite basketball competition • Basketball development vs. playing time • Deep roster basketball exposure and college placement • Preparing for college basketball speed and physicality • Military structure, discipline, and player development • Earning minutes on talented basketball teams • Reclassing compared with a post-grad year • Parent behavior in the recruiting process 🏀 About Austin Burnette: Austin Burnette is the head coach of Hargrave Basketball and a former Hargrave player and assistant coach. After playing college basketball at Campbell, he gained experience as a Division I assistant coach before returning to lead his alma mater. His perspective combines experience as a prep player, college player, recruiter, assistant coach, and head coach. 🔗 Contact Austin Burnette: Twitter / X | https://x.com/CoachABurn Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/coachaburn/ Team IG | https://www.instagram.com/hargravebasketball/ Team X | https://www.instagram.com/hargravebasketball/ 🏆 About PREP Athletics: At PREP Athletics, we help young athletes and their families understand the prep school path and how it can create better opportunities in the classroom, on the court, and in the college recruiting process. We talk about prep schools, post-grad years, reclassing, recruiting, academics, AAU, NCAA updates, and the decisions families need to understand before choosing a path. Our goal is to help players find the right fit, not just any placement. We share honest, experience-based guidance for families navigating prep school basketball, college recruiting, exposure, development, and the steps that can help student-athletes move closer to their goals. Learn more about the prep school pathway at PREPAthletics.com. If your family needs help evaluating schools or navigating the placement process, contact PREP Athletics and subscribe for more prep basketball and recruiting guidance. 🔗 Connect with PREP Athletics: Website | https://www.prepathletics.com Email | [email protected] X | https://twitter.com/PREP_Athletics Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep.athletics/ Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/PrepAthletics TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@prep_athletics LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/prep-athletics 🔖 Subscribe to the PREP Athletics Podcast: iTunes | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prep-athletics-podcast/id1546265809?uo=4 Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/6CAKbXFiIOhoHinzsReYbJ Amazon | https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/3c37179d-3371-47f9-9d97-fd569e8802a7/prep-athletics-basketball-podcast Website | https://prepathletics.com/prep-athletics-podcast/ #PREPAthletics #HargraveBasketball #PrepSchoolBasketball #BasketballDevelopment #CollegeBasketball #BasketballRecruiting 🏆 About PREP Athletics: At PREP Athletics, we help young athletes and their families understand the prep school path and how it can create better opportunities in the classroom, on the court, and in the college recruiting process. We talk about prep schools, post-grad years, reclassing, recruiting, academics, AAU, NCAA updates, and the decisions families need to understand before choosing a path. Our goal is to help players find the right fit, not just any placement. We share honest, experience-based guidance for families navigating prep school basketball, college recruiting, exposure, development, and the steps that can help student-athletes move closer to their goals. Learn more at PREP Athletics, contact us if your family needs help navigating the prep-school process, and subscribe for more practical prep basketball and recruiting guidance. 🔗 Connect with PREP Athletics: Website | https://www.prepathletics.com Email | [email protected] X | https://twitter.com/PREP_Athletics Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep.athletics/ Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/PrepAthletics TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@prep_athletics LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/prep-athletics 🔖 Subscribe to the PREP Athletics Podcast: iTunes | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prep-athletics-podcast/id1546265809?uo=4 Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/6CAKbX...

Joe O’Shea, Head Coach of The Kiski School, joins us to discuss prep school basketball, reclassing, college recruiting, player development, playing time, and college placement. Joe shares his journey from Vermont Mr. Basketball to Division I basketball at Holy Cross and Bryant, professional basketball in Europe, college coaching, and ultimately leading the program at Kiski. We also discuss how Kiski develops its players, why Joe strongly supports reclassing in most situations, what families should understand about playing time, and how the transfer portal has changed recruiting for high school basketball players. ⏰ Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 01:46 – Joe O’Shea’s Basketball Background 03:16 – Transferring From Holy Cross to Bryant 06:25 – The Reality of Division I Basketball 09:01 – Lessons From College Coaching 12:24 – Inside The Kiski School 17:24 – How Kiski Develops Players 19:47 – Playing Time and Finding the Right Fit 22:10 – Should Basketball Players Reclassify? 25:00 – College Placement and the Transfer Portal 27:18 – What College Coaches Really Value 31:10 – The Future of Prep School Basketball 33:36 – Why the Prep School Path Matters 📌 Key Topics: • Prep school basketball • Reclassing and the extra year • College basketball recruiting • Player development • Playing time and roster fit • College placement • The transfer portal • Preparing players for college basketball 👤 About Joe O’Shea: Joe O’Shea is the Head Basketball Coach at The Kiski School in Pennsylvania. He was a two-time state champion and Vermont Mr. Basketball before playing Division I basketball at Holy Cross and Bryant. He later played professionally in Europe and coached at Mercyhurst and Saint Anselm. 🔗 Connect with Joe: Email | [email protected] X | https://x.com/_joshea1_ Hoops IG | https://www.instagram.com/kiski.mbb/ 🎙️ About PREP Athletics: At PREP Athletics, we help young athletes and their families understand the prep school path and how it can create better opportunities in the classroom, on the court, and throughout the college recruiting process. We talk about prep schools, post-grad years, reclassing, recruiting, academics, AAU, NCAA updates, and the decisions families need to understand before choosing a path. Our goal is to help players find the right fit, not just any placement. #PrepSchoolBasketball #CollegeRecruiting #Reclassing #BasketballRecruiting #PlayerDevelopment #KiskiSchool 🏆 About PREP Athletics: At PREP Athletics, we help young athletes and their families understand the prep school path and how it can create better opportunities in the classroom, on the court, and in the college recruiting process. We talk about prep schools, post-grad years, reclassing, recruiting, academics, AAU, NCAA updates, and the decisions families need to understand before choosing a path. Our goal is to help players find the right fit, not just any placement. We share honest, experience-based guidance for families navigating prep school basketball, college recruiting, exposure, development, and the steps that can help student-athletes move closer to their goals. Learn more at PREP Athletics, contact us if your family needs help navigating the prep-school process, and subscribe for more practical prep basketball and recruiting guidance. 🔗 Connect with PREP Athletics: Website | https://www.prepathletics.com Email | [email protected] X | https://twitter.com/PREP_Athletics Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep.athletics/ Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/PrepAthletics TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@prep_athletics LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/prep-athletics 🔖 Subscribe to the PREP Athletics Podcast: iTunes | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prep-athletics-podcast/id1546265809?uo=4 Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/6CAKbX...

Mike Foustoukos, head coach of Lawrence Academy Basketball, joins Cory Heitz to discuss reclassing, what D1 guards need, player development, college placement, and how possible NCAA eligibility changes could affect recruits. Across the conversation, Mike explains why Lawrence Academy aims to prepare students for more than the next game. He covers the school’s community and RISE mission, multi-sport participation, honest playing-time expectations, strength and skill development, film study, and finding a college where each student-athlete can thrive. Mike also breaks down what college coaches want in a point guard, including versatile defense, reliable shooting, off-ball impact, passing, maturity, and leadership. For families considering reclassification or a post-grad path, this episode highlights the physical, mental, academic, and long-term factors that should shape the decision. Subscribe to PREP Athletics and visit prepathletics.com to sign up for the newsletter and find more guidance about prep school basketball and college recruiting. ⏰ Timestamps: 00:00 - Episode Introduction 01:19 - Mike’s Basketball Journey 03:34 - Why Lawrence Academy Stands Out 07:19 - Kevin’s Coaching Legacy 09:50 - How Lawrence Academy Develops Players 12:19 - Multi-Sport Expectations and Earning Minutes 15:13 - College Placement and Reclassing 18:19 - What D1 Guards Need 19:59 - The Future of Prep School Basketball 21:21 - Should March Madness Expand? 23:13 - How NCAA Eligibility Changes Could Affect Recruits 26:22 - Basketball Quick Hitters 28:48 - College Ready. Life Ready. 📌 Key Topics: • Lawrence Academy Basketball and the RISE mission • Prep school basketball player development • Multi-sport participation and playing time • Finding the right academic and basketball fit • Whether basketball players should reclass • What college coaches want in a point guard • Possible NCAA eligibility changes • Preparing student-athletes for college and life 🏀 About Mike: Mike Foustoukos is the head basketball coach at Lawrence Academy and also teaches history. He grew up in Southern Maine, took a preferred walk-on spot at Merrimack, and later played briefly at Southern Maine before beginning his work at Lawrence Academy. 🔗 Connect with Mike: X | https://x.com/CoachStouks?lang=en Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/coachstouks/?hl=en Email | [email protected] Hoops IG | https://www.instagram.com/laspartansbb/ Hoops X | https://x.com/lacademyhoops 🎙️ About PREP Athletics: At PREP Athletics, we help young athletes and their families understand the prep school path and how it can create better opportunities in the classroom, on the court, and in the college recruiting process. We talk about prep schools, post-grad years, reclassing, recruiting, academics, AAU, NCAA updates, and the decisions families need to understand before choosing a path. Our goal is to help players find the right fit, not just any placement. We share honest, experience-based guidance for families trying to navigate prep school basketball, college recruiting, exposure, development, and the steps that can help student-athletes move closer to their goals. #LawrenceAcademyBasketball #PrepSchoolBasketball #BasketballRecruiting #Reclassing #CollegeBasketball #PREPAthletics 🏆 About PREP Athletics: At PREP Athletics, we help young athletes and their families understand the prep school path and how it can create better opportunities in the classroom, on the court, and in the college recruiting process. We talk about prep schools, post-grad years, reclassing, recruiting, academics, AAU, NCAA updates, and the decisions families need to understand before choosing a path. Our goal is to help players find the right fit, not just any placement. We share honest, experience-based guidance for families navigating prep school basketball, college recruiting, exposure, development, and the steps that can help student-athletes move closer to their goals. Learn more at PREP Athletics, contact us if your family needs help navigating the prep-school process, and subscribe for more practical prep basketball and recruiting guidance. 🔗 Connect with PREP Athletics: Website | https://www.prepathletics.com Email | [email protected] X | https://twitter.com/PREP_Athletics Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep.athletics/ Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/PrepAthletics TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@prep_athletics LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/prep-athletics 🔖 Subscribe to the PREP Athletics Podcast: iTunes | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prep-athletics-podcast/id1546265809?uo=4 Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/6CAKbX...

Bryce Daley, coach at Salisbury School, shares how to get recruited for basketball, what families should know about a post grad year for basketball, and how prep school can help players prepare for college. In this episode of the PREP Athletics Podcast, we talk with Bryce about his own path from Salisbury School to Division I basketball at UMass Lowell, what surprised him about the D1 level, and how he now helps players develop at Salisbury. We also cover campus visits, all-boys school advantages, player development, playing time expectations, college placement, NEPSAC exposure, reclassification, post-grad eligibility questions, and what it takes to become a scholarship-level guard. ⏰ Timestamps: 00:00 - Episode Intro 01:57 - Bryce Daley Joins the Podcast 02:09 - Bryce’s Basketball Background and Prep School Path 08:10 - From Salisbury School to UMass Lowell 10:41 - What Playing D1 Basketball Really Takes 13:18 - Why Salisbury School Works 16:45 - All-Boys School and Player Development 21:43 - Sports Requirements, Strength Training, and Post-Grad Academics 27:38 - College Placement and Playing Time Expectations 32:18 - NEPSAC Exposure, Reclassing, and Post-Grad Decisions 41:02 - NEPSAC Class A and What It Takes to Be a D1 Guard 45:33 - The Future of Prep School Basketball and Quick Hitters 52:24 - How Prep School Changed Bryce’s Life 53:52 - Bryce’s Contact Info and Final PREP Athletics CTA 📌 Key Topics: • How to get recruited for basketball • Post grad year for basketball • Salisbury School basketball • Prep school basketball recruiting • NEPSAC basketball exposure • Reclassifying for basketball • Prep school vs JUCO basketball • What it takes to be a D1 guard 🏀 About Bryce: Bryce Daley is a coach at Salisbury School. He attended Salisbury as a repeat junior and senior before playing Division I basketball at UMass Lowell. In this conversation, he shares both his personal prep school experience and his current perspective helping young men develop as students, athletes, and recruits. 🔗 How to Connect with Bryce: Email | [email protected] Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/brycedaley11/ X | https://x.com/Bryce_daley11 LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryce-daley-740042284 BB Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/sarumbasketball/ 🎙️ About PREP Athletics: At PREP Athletics, we help young athletes and their families understand the prep school path and how it can create better opportunities in the classroom, on the court, and in the college recruiting process. We talk about prep schools, post-grad years, reclassing, recruiting, academics, AAU, NCAA updates, and the decisions families need to understand before choosing a path. Our goal is to help players find the right fit, not just any placement. We share honest, experience-based guidance for families trying to navigate prep school basketball, college recruiting, exposure, development, and the steps that can help student-athletes move closer to their goals. Visit prepathletics.com to fill out the free assessment and learn whether the prep school path may make sense for your family. #PrepAthletics #PrepSchoolBasketball #BasketballRecruiting #PostGradYear #SalisburySchool #NEPSACBasketball 🏆 About PREP Athletics: At PREP Athletics, we help young athletes and their families understand the prep school path and how it can create better opportunities in the classroom, on the court, and in the college recruiting process. We talk about prep schools, post-grad years, reclassing, recruiting, academics, AAU, NCAA updates, and the decisions families need to understand before choosing a path. Our goal is to help players find the right fit, not just any placement. We share honest, experience-based guidance for families navigating prep school basketball, college recruiting, exposure, development, and the steps that can help student-athletes move closer to their goals. Learn more at PREP Athletics, contact us if your family needs help navigating the prep-school process, and subscribe for more practical prep basketball and recruiting guidance. 🔗 Connect with PREP Athletics: Website | https://www.prepathletics.com Email | [email protected] X | https://twitter.com/PREP_Athletics Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep.athletics/ Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/PrepAthletics TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@prep_athletics LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/prep-athletics 🔖 Subscribe to the PREP Athletics Podcast: iTunes | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prep-athletics-podcast/id1546265809?uo=4 Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/6CAKbX...

What NBA teams look for goes beyond talent. Former Denver Nugget Bill Hanzlik joins PREP Athletics to talk about player potential, work ethic, character, and why he chose a prep school post-grad year for his son. Bill shares how defense helped him become a first-round NBA Draft pick, what young players need to understand about making it to the next level, and how NBA teams evaluate more than just scoring. He also explains how he researched prep schools, why New Hampton became the right fit for his son Rob, and what families should consider when looking at the prep school path. We also talk about Nikola Jokic, what makes him special, Bill’s Denver Nuggets perspective, and Stomp’s basketball traction product after appearing on Shark Tank. ⏰ Timestamps: 00:00 - Bill Hanzlik, Denver Nuggets, Prep School, and Stomp 03:07 - Bill’s NBA Career and Defensive Identity 05:50 - What NBA Teams Look For in Young Players 09:12 - Why Bill Sent His Son to Prep School 12:43 - What Makes Nikola Jokic Special 15:31 - Stomp, Shark Tank, and Basketball Traction 18:22 - Final Advice for Families 📌 Key Topics: • What NBA teams look for in young basketball players • Bill Hanzlik’s NBA and Denver Nuggets experience • Why defense helped Bill become a first-round draft pick • Work ethic, character, shooting, and being a good teammate • Why Bill chose prep school for his son Rob • New Hampton and the post-grad basketball path • Nikola Jokic’s development and competitiveness • Stomp basketball traction mats and Shark Tank 👤 About the Guest: Bill Hanzlik is a former NBA player, former Denver Nuggets head coach, and longtime Nuggets broadcaster. He played college basketball at Notre Dame, was selected in the first round of the 1980 NBA Draft, and later sent his son Rob to New Hampton for a post-grad prep school year before Rob went on to play Division I basketball. 🎙️ About PREP Athletics: At PREP Athletics, we help young athletes and their families understand the prep school path and how it can create better opportunities in the classroom, on the court, and in the college recruiting process. We talk about prep schools, post-grad years, reclassing, recruiting, academics, AAU, NCAA updates, and the decisions families need to understand before choosing a path. Our goal is to help players find the right fit, not just any placement. We share honest, experience-based guidance for families trying to navigate prep school basketball, college recruiting, exposure, development, and the steps that can help student-athletes move closer to their goals. #PREPAthletics #BillHanzlik #DenverNuggets #BasketballRecruiting #PrepSchoolBasketball #PostGradBasketball #NBADraft #NikolaJokic 🏆 About PREP Athletics: At PREP Athletics, we help young athletes and their families understand the prep school path and how it can create better opportunities in the classroom, on the court, and in the college recruiting process. We talk about prep schools, post-grad years, reclassing, recruiting, academics, AAU, NCAA updates, and the decisions families need to understand before choosing a path. Our goal is to help players find the right fit, not just any placement. We share honest, experience-based guidance for families navigating prep school basketball, college recruiting, exposure, development, and the steps that can help student-athletes move closer to their goals. Learn more at PREP Athletics, contact us if your family needs help navigating the prep-school process, and subscribe for more practical prep basketball and recruiting guidance. 🔗 Connect with PREP Athletics: Website | https://www.prepathletics.com Email | [email protected] X | https://twitter.com/PREP_Athletics Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep.athletics/ Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/PrepAthletics TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@prep_athletics LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/prep-athletics 🔖 Subscribe to the PREP Athletics Podcast: iTunes | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prep-athletics-podcast/id1546265809?uo=4 Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/6CAKbX...

Discover how multi-sport athlete prep can transform your development with Garvin McAlister, head basketball coach at Millbrook School. In this episode of PREP Athletics, Garvin shares his insights on student-athlete development tips, multi-sport training, and preparing high school athletes for success both on and off the court. We cover:  Developing skills across multiple sports  Lessons from college and prep school coaching  Millbrook School’s community and athletic philosophy  Balancing academics and athletics  Preparing for post-grad opportunities ⏰ Timestamps:  01:29 - Early Life & Basketball Beginnings  02:07 - Coaching Experience Across Levels  03:17 - Key Mentorship Lessons  04:30 - Lessons from College Women’s Basketball  05:07 - Millbrook School Overview  06:40 - Athletics & Campus Resources  10:36 - Multi-Sport Requirement & Athletic Philosophy  15:36 - Practice & Development Philosophy  22:35 - Playing Time & Family Communication  30:33 - D1 Guard Skills & IQ in Basketball  34:50 - Rapid-Fire / Fun Segment  37:17 - Closing Thoughts & Appreciation 📌 Key Topics:  • Multi-sport athlete prep  • Student-athlete development tips  • High school athlete development  • Basketball coaching philosophy  • Millbrook School athletic program  • Prep school recruiting strategies 👤 About the Guest:  Garvin McAlister is the head basketball coach at Millbrook School, with experience coaching high school and college athletes, emphasizing holistic athletic development, multi-sport training, and player growth on and off the court. 🎙️ About PREP Athletics:  At PREP Athletics, we help young athletes and their families understand the prep school path and how it creates better academic, athletic, and college recruiting opportunities. We provide honest, experience-based guidance on prep schools, post-grad years, reclassing, recruiting, academics, AAU, and NCAA updates to help players find the right fit. #multi-sportathleteprep #PrepAthletics #HighSchoolBasketball #StudentAthleteDevelopment #BasketballCoaching #GarvinMcAlister #PrepSchoolBasketball 🏆 About PREP Athletics: At PREP Athletics, we help young athletes and their families understand the prep school path and how it can create better opportunities in the classroom, on the court, and in the college recruiting process. We talk about prep schools, post-grad years, reclassing, recruiting, academics, AAU, NCAA updates, and the decisions families need to understand before choosing a path. Our goal is to help players find the right fit, not just any placement. We share honest, experience-based guidance for families navigating prep school basketball, college recruiting, exposure, development, and the steps that can help student-athletes move closer to their goals. Learn more at PREP Athletics, contact us if your family needs help navigating the prep-school process, and subscribe for more practical prep basketball and recruiting guidance. 🔗 Connect with PREP Athletics: Website | https://www.prepathletics.com Email | [email protected] X | https://twitter.com/PREP_Athletics Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep.athletics/ Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/PrepAthletics TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@prep_athletics LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/prep-athletics 🔖 Subscribe to the PREP Athletics Podcast: iTunes | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prep-athletics-podcast/id1546265809?uo=4 Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/6CAKbX...

Join Cory Heitz and Paul Biancardi—ESPN’s National Director of Recruiting, former D1 head coach, and a walk-on turned basketball insider—as they pull back the curtain on college basketball recruiting, player evaluation, and the intangibles that separate good players from great ones. Paul shares hard truths about rankings, the myth of "exposure", and why character, efficiency, and coachability matter more than points per game. Discover why 94% of high school players won’t play college ball, how to avoid the "D1 Herpes" trap, and the one game every athlete should never play (hint: it’s the comparison game). This episode is packed with actionable advice for players, parents, and coaches navigating the prep-to-college pipeline. 💡 Key Topics: 📌 Recruiting realities: How college coaches really evaluate players (and why scoring isn’t everything) 📌 The exposure myth: Why showcases ≠ development and what to do instead 📌 Prep school pros/cons: When a fifth year helps—and when it doesn’t 📌 Parenting pitfalls: How well-meaning parents sabotage their kids’ recruitment 📌 D1 guard blueprint: The non-negotiable skills for modern college guards 📌 Rankings decoded: What they mean, what they don’t, and how to use them wisely 🏀 About Paul Biancardi: Paul Biancardi is a basketball lifer—from walking on at Salem State under Tom Thibodeau to coaching at Boston College, Ohio State, and Wright State, to his current role as ESPN’s National Director of Recruiting. As a McDonald’s All-American Game selector and rankings architect, Paul has spent decades evaluating, coaching, and mentoring the next generation of basketball talent. His no-nonsense approach to player development and recruiting makes him one of the most trusted voices in the game. 🔗 Connect with Paul Biancardi: Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/paulbiancardi/ Twitter | https://x.com/PaulBiancardi LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-biancardi-331113a9/ Website | https://www.coachbiancardi.com/ 🏆 About PREP Athletics: At PREP Athletics, we help young athletes and their families understand the prep school path and how it can create better opportunities in the classroom, on the court, and in the college recruiting process. We talk about prep schools, post-grad years, reclassing, recruiting, academics, AAU, NCAA updates, and the decisions families need to understand before choosing a path. Our goal is to help players find the right fit, not just any placement. We share honest, experience-based guidance for families navigating prep school basketball, college recruiting, exposure, development, and the steps that can help student-athletes move closer to their goals. Learn more at PREP Athletics, contact us if your family needs help navigating the prep-school process, and subscribe for more practical prep basketball and recruiting guidance. 🔗 Connect with PREP Athletics: Website | https://www.prepathletics.com Email | [email protected] X | https://twitter.com/PREP_Athletics Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep.athletics/ Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/PrepAthletics TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@prep_athletics LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/prep-athletics 🔖 Subscribe to the PREP Athletics Podcast: iTunes | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prep-athletics-podcast/id1546265809?uo=4 Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/6CAKbX...

Join Cory Heitz and George White—former Harvard basketball player, D1 coach, and founder of RecruitU—as they dissect the NCAA’s proposed "5-and-5 rule", a game-changer for prep school basketball and college recruitment. George breaks down how this rule will limit eligibility to five years (starting at high school graduation or age 19), restrict transfers to one immediate move, and impact NIL deals, post-grad years, and injury waivers. Discover why post-grad years still hold value for late bloomers, how mid-major programs may benefit, and the hidden risks for injured athletes and reclassified players. This is must-listen intel for parents, players, and coaches navigating the evolving prep-to-college pipeline. 💡 Key Topics: 📌 NCAA 5-and-5 Rule Explained: 5 years of eligibility, transfer restrictions, and clock start triggers 📌 Post-Grad Year Impact: Does a PG year still make sense under the new rules? 📌 NIL & Transfer Market Shifts: How the rule could reduce NIL leverage for transfers 📌 Coach & Program Reactions: Mid-majors vs. power conferences—who wins and who loses? 📌 Injury & Waiver Risks: The unintended consequences for injured athletes 📌 Reclassing Strategies: Why early reclassing in grade school could backfire 🏀 About George White: George White is a former Harvard basketball player, D1 coach, and the founder of RecruitU, a consulting firm specializing in college recruitment strategies. With decades of experience at every level of basketball—from playing in the Ivy League to coaching in D1 programs—George provides unfiltered insights into the NCAA’s rule changes and their real-world impact on athletes, families, and programs. His expertise in player development, recruitment trends, and NIL dynamics makes him a trusted voice for navigating the prep-to-college pipeline. 🔗 Connect with George White: Website | www.recruituapp.com Email | [email protected] Twitter | x.com/RecruitUapp1 Instagram | www.instagram.com/ugetrecruited/ LinkedIn | www.linkedin.com/company/recruiting-sports-network/ 🏆 About PREP Athletics: At PREP Athletics, we help young athletes and their families understand the prep school path and how it can create better opportunities in the classroom, on the court, and in the college recruiting process. We talk about prep schools, post-grad years, reclassing, recruiting, academics, AAU, NCAA updates, and the decisions families need to understand before choosing a path. Our goal is to help players find the right fit, not just any placement. We share honest, experience-based guidance for families navigating prep school basketball, college recruiting, exposure, development, and the steps that can help student-athletes move closer to their goals. Learn more at PREP Athletics, contact us if your family needs help navigating the prep-school process, and subscribe for more practical prep basketball and recruiting guidance. 🔗 Connect with PREP Athletics: Website | https://www.prepathletics.com Email | [email protected] X | https://twitter.com/PREP_Athletics Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep.athletics/ Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/PrepAthletics TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@prep_athletics LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/prep-athletics 🔖 Subscribe to the PREP Athletics Podcast: iTunes | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prep-athletics-podcast/id1546265809?uo=4 Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/6CAKbX...

Join Cory Heitz as he welcomes Jason Smith and John Carroll, the heads of the basketball program at MAI (Masters Athletic International), a groundbreaking prep school basketball program in Stow, Massachusetts. In this episode, Jason and John dive deep into the future of prep basketball, sharing their mission to create a program that prioritizes year-round player development, elite competition, and academic excellence without compromise. Jason and John also reveal their strategy for college placement, the ideal player profile for MAI, and how they’re reshaping New England basketball by keeping top talent home. Whether you're a parent, player, or coach, this conversation is packed with actionable insights for navigating the prep-to-college pipeline. 💡 Key Topics:  📌 Year-round basketball development without academic sacrifice  📌 MAI’s competitive edge: Location, facilities, and elite coaching staff  📌 Injury prevention & recovery: Prehab, load management, and nutrition  📌 Academic tailoring: College-prep courses, online learning, and flexibility  📌 College placement strategy: Early recruitment and fall workouts  📌 The future of prep basketball: Transformational vs. transactional programs 🏀 About Jason Smith & John Carroll:  Jason Smith is a legendary prep school coach with a track record of developing 26 NBA players, including current pros. His expertise in player development, recruiting, and elite competition has made him a sought-after leader in basketball circles. At MAI, he oversees the on-court development and team strategy, ensuring players receive NBA-level training daily. John Carroll combines Wall Street acumen with decades of coaching experience, including sending 55 players to the Ivy League. His vision for MAI merges academic rigor, athletic excellence, and character development, creating a holistic prep experience. John’s focus on innovation and adaptability positions MAI as a pioneer in modern prep school education. 🔗 Connect with Jason Smith & John Carroll: Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/john.carroll32/ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/coachjasonsmith_/ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/mastersacademyinternational/ Website | https://www.mastersacademyinternational.com/ 🏆 About PREP Athletics: At PREP Athletics, we help young athletes and their families understand the prep school path and how it can create better opportunities in the classroom, on the court, and in the college recruiting process. We talk about prep schools, post-grad years, reclassing, recruiting, academics, AAU, NCAA updates, and the decisions families need to understand before choosing a path. Our goal is to help players find the right fit, not just any placement. We share honest, experience-based guidance for families navigating prep school basketball, college recruiting, exposure, development, and the steps that can help student-athletes move closer to their goals. Learn more at PREP Athletics, contact us if your family needs help navigating the prep-school process, and subscribe for more practical prep basketball and recruiting guidance. 🔗 Connect with PREP Athletics: Website | https://www.prepathletics.com Email | [email protected] X | https://twitter.com/PREP_Athletics Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep.athletics/ Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/PrepAthletics TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@prep_athletics LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/prep-athletics 🔖 Subscribe to the PREP Athletics Podcast: iTunes | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prep-athletics-podcast/id1546265809?uo=4 Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/6CAKbX...

Unlock the Secrets of Prep School Basketball with Avon Old Farms Head Coach Matt Mihalich Join Cory Heitz and Matt Mihalich, Head Coach at Avon Old Farms, as they dive deep into the world of prep school basketball, player development, and the path to college success. Matt, a veteran coach with D1 experience and a basketball legacy (his father was a D1 head coach), shares honest, no-nonsense advice on what it takes to thrive in prep school, the importance of multi-sport athleticism, and how families can navigate the complex recruitment process. Matt also reflects on his journey—from growing up in a basketball family to coaching in the WCAC (the toughest homegrown league in the country) and now leading one of the most respected prep programs in NEPSAC Class A. 💡 Key Topics: 📌 Prep school basketball development and the Avon Old Farms difference 📌 Playing time in prep school: Setting expectations for players and families 📌 Reclassifying vs. post-grad years: Academic and athletic considerations 📌 Multi-sport athleticism: Why Avon Old Farms encourages it 📌 College recruitment strategies in the transfer portal era 📌 D1 guard requirements: Skills, basketball IQ, and intangibles 📌 The future of prep school basketball: Rivalries, traditions, and player development 🏀 About Matt Mihalich: Matt Mihalich is the Head Coach at Avon Old Farms, a prestigious all-boys prep school in Connecticut known for its elite basketball program and commitment to academic and athletic excellence. With a background that includes coaching at Bishop O’Connell (WCAC), George Mason University, and the University of Hartford, Matt brings a wealth of experience to player development. As the son of a D1 head coach, he grew up immersed in the game and now leads one of the most respected programs in NEPSAC Class A. Matt’s philosophy centers on teaching, culture, and preparing players for success beyond basketball. 🔗 Connect with Matt Mihalich: Twitter | https://x.com/CoachM_AOFhoops Twitter | https://x.com/AOF_Basketball Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/aof_basketball/ LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-mihalich-78294336a/ Website | https://www.avonoldfarms.com/ 🏆 About PREP Athletics: At PREP Athletics, we help young athletes and their families understand the prep school path and how it can create better opportunities in the classroom, on the court, and in the college recruiting process. We talk about prep schools, post-grad years, reclassing, recruiting, academics, AAU, NCAA updates, and the decisions families need to understand before choosing a path. Our goal is to help players find the right fit, not just any placement. We share honest, experience-based guidance for families navigating prep school basketball, college recruiting, exposure, development, and the steps that can help student-athletes move closer to their goals. Learn more at PREP Athletics, contact us if your family needs help navigating the prep-school process, and subscribe for more practical prep basketball and recruiting guidance. 🔗 Connect with PREP Athletics: Website | https://www.prepathletics.com Email | [email protected] X | https://twitter.com/PREP_Athletics Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep.athletics/ Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/PrepAthletics TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@prep_athletics LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/prep-athletics 🔖 Subscribe to the PREP Athletics Podcast: iTunes | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prep-athletics-podcast/id1546265809?uo=4 Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/6CAKbX...