Who, What & Where Questions for Student Athletes In Recruiting Process

When we talk to student-athletes about recruiting we encourage them to take ownership and responsibility of the process. We encourage them to ask questions. The following questions are an outline of that process. We call it the, "Who, What & Where" questions for student-athletes.


WHO
Coaching staff's philosophy of education
Coaching staff's philosophy of basketball
Coaching staff's experience
Student population: Too Big/ Too Small
Character and spirit of the campus in general
Can I respect the Head Coach and staff?
Future teammates
Type of players being recruited
School's athletic policy…Guarantee if injured
Position coach
Recruiting coach
What do former players say of their experiences?

WHERE
Miles from home
Availability of air, train, bus travel
Living conditions
Dining facilities
Weather conditions
Size of city or town
Attitude of community to the University

WHAT
Academic reptutation in my desired major
Alternative academic offerings
Academic facilities in my major
Can I compete in the classroom?
Do the athletes succeed in the classroom?
Is there tutoring help available?
Is there study hall?
Can we win?
Practice and workout facilities
Equipment
Schedule
Opportunity to go on and play professionally
Style of play
Can I continue to grow in the church of my faith?
How soon will I play?
Off season programs
Discipline

GENERAL QUESTIONS
Availability of summer employment
Quality of recruiting--How much do they want me?
Wishes of Mom/Dad
High school / AAU Coach's feelings
What does my principal, counselor or favorite teacher think?
Insurance Policy

Questoins Doc Rivers Suggests For Recurits

I had the opportunity to sit on a panel this weekend at the path2D1 seminar and Doc offered the following suggestions for parents and student-athletes to consider when considering what college to attend. He was not only speaking as a coach, former player but as a parent who has been through the process three times.

Playing..Remember that is why you play the game is to play in the games.
Does the school's system fit your style of play, your skill set, etc.
It's more than just signing with a "Big Name"
He made his college decision because he trusted Al McGuire
Ask questions.
If a coach tells/ promises you that you will start, don't go there because they are making that promise every year and not everyone can start....Trust.
Talk to the 12th & 13th player on the team. They'll be honest about what's going on.
Talk to the All-State or All-American player that isn't getting a lot of playing time.
Talk to ex-players..
Find out if ex-players come around the office, into town, etc.