Basketball Tryouts - Freshman Tips to Remember

<p>Tryouts are right around the corner, and it's time to lock in. Whether you're a returning varsity player or walking into your first high school tryout, the same principles apply—coaches are watching everything. We have some tips for all players, especially those who are new to the team and will be participating in their first varsity opportunity, featuring just those players who are the ones new to the game when it comes to high school. </p>   <p>When you step into the gym, remember—you're not just trying out for a roster spot, you're showing that you make the <em>team</em> better. Coaches can teach skills, but they can't teach effort, attitude, or love for the game. Bring those, and you'll stand out.</p>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>1. Effort speaks louder than skill.</strong></h2>   <p>Hustle on every drill, chase down loose balls, and sprint back on defense. Coaches notice players who play with urgency, not just talent.</p>    <p class="text-gray-700">One of the players who really embodied this mentality was Addison. In nearly every game she played, even if she wasn't lighting up the scoreboard, she made her presence felt through effort and intensity. She was the first to dive on the floor for a loose ball, the one disrupting passing lanes, and constantly creating extra possessions for her team. Addison's impact goes far beyond stats—she's the kind of player who changes the energy of a game just by being on the floor.</p>    <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>2. Communicate constantly.</strong></h2>   <p>Talk on defense, call out screens, encourage teammates. A loud, confident voice sets you apart and shows leadership potential—even if you're not the oldest or tallest in the gym.</p>    <p class="text-gray-700">Ember shows the kind of leadership you can't teach—especially impressive for a freshman. When the ball was in her hands, she took command of the floor, directing traffic and helping her teammates get into position. Her vocal presence and confidence stood out, not just in running plays but in keeping the energy steady and focused. That communication and poise will only elevate those around her as she continues to grow into a true floor general.</p>    <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>3. Play smart, not selfish.</strong></h2>   <p>Coaches aren't just watching how many shots you make—they're watching how you move the ball, set up teammates, and make good reads under pressure. Show patience, spacing, and decision-making.</p>    <p class="text-gray-700">Cam will be trying out for Lehi as a freshman. She's one of the most selfless players we've seen this fall—always looking to elevate those around her. Even while setting up teammates and keeping the offense flowing, she still manages to grab boards and put up her own points, not from forcing shots, but from reading the floor and seizing opportunities. Her court awareness and maturity make her an instant asset, and if she continues to play with this balance of unselfishness and grit, she'll fit right into Lehi's system and make an impact early.</p>    <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>4. Body language matters.</strong></h2>   <p>Missed shots happen. How you respond is what matters. Keep your head up, stay positive, and show that you're coachable.</p>    <p class="text-gray-700">For a freshman, Brinley plays with a maturity that immediately stands out. Missed shots or opportunities don't shake her—she resets fast and finds another way to make an impact. What separates her is how she turns those moments into defensive fuel, locking in, forcing turnovers, and getting her team back in rhythm. Her composure and effort on both ends of the floor show that she's already wired like a veteran, with the confidence and work ethic to become a leader early in her career.</p>    <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>5. Show versatility.</strong></h2>   <p>Be willing to guard multiple positions, set screens, rebound, or do the dirty work. A player who can fill multiple roles earns time faster than one who only does one thing well.</p>    <p class="text-gray-700">Maelys showed impressive versatility on the floor, never limiting herself to one position. She confidently took on players of any size or role, proving she can adapt and compete anywhere on the court. What stood out most was her ability to read the game—she consistently found open space, slipped through defenders, and delivered smart passes to cutters in the lane. Her off-ball movement and court awareness make her a dynamic playmaker who elevates the pace and flow of her team's offense.</p>    <p></p>   <p></p>

Tryouts are right around the corner, and it's time to lock in. Whether you're a returning varsity player or walking into your first high school tryout, the same principles apply—coaches are watching everything. We have some tips for all players, especially those who are new to the team and will be participating in their first varsity opportunity, featuring just those players who are the ones new to the game when it comes to high school.