Player Tips Going into First Live Period Play

<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Steps to Play in Front of College Coaches</h3>   With all of the live period events beginning today, here are our best tips for making the most of the time on the hardwood.   1. Understand the moment If a college coach is watching your game, it's intentional. You've already been evaluated—now they're confirming who you are live. If they are there to watch someone else on your team, be the best facilitator in helping that player look good - it helps you look good in the process.   2. Make every possession count Coaches may only watch a half or less. Effort, focus, and consistency on every play matter.   3. Play your game (don't force it) Stay within yourself. Smart decisions and unselfish play stand out more than trying to “do too much.” When you try to play outside of your game, you lose the ability to show what you do best. Just be consistent and play your game.   4. Maximize limited minutes You might only get short playing time all weekend—produce when you're on the floor. If you are a player who takes a few minutes to get into the game, find a way to capitalize once you are in the game.   5. Show how you impact winning Coaches are evaluating effort, IQ, defense, consistency, and how you respond to adversity—not just scoring. Be the person who hustles for every play, every time out, and makes a positive contribution, even when you aren't on the floor.   6. Be proactive with recruiting Send film, schedules, and updates directly to coaches. Follow up consistently and respectfully. They get a lot of content. Find a way to stand out before you ever get to the event.   7. Do your homework Research schools—know their level, roster needs, style of play, and academics. Make your outreach personal.   8. Build real connections (not just social media) Tagging teams isn't enough. Most of the time, the person running the social media for the schools you are tagging or sending things to is not the coach, but a media team. Direct communication is what gets attention.   9. Trust your program—but advocate for yourself Your club team should help, but your recruiting journey is ultimately yours to drive. Send emails before events, make them specific, and talk about specifics as to why you are interested in their program.   10. Be realistic about the landscape With the transfer portal and NIL, coaches often prioritize experienced players—be strategic. Don't turn down realistic offers just because it is a lower-level school. Most D1 schools already have their 2027 rosters built and have left some spots open for college transfers, so be realistic about where you are on the timeline for pursuing some schools.   11. Consider all pathways JUCO, D2, and other routes can lead to D1 opportunities. Fit and development matter more than labels. Find a program that not only interests you, but is also willing to find a place for you in their program. Are they having you just fill a practice roster spot, or do they have a plan on how to use your talent? Find a program that will use what you have to offer.   12. Treat it like an opportunity (not just exposure) Travel and showcases are an investment—approach them with purpose and effort.   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Bottom Line:</h3>   If a coach is in the gym watching you, it means something.   Play your game.