Episode Summary:In this solo episode of It’s Just Different, host Ashley Roberts breaks down what every parent of an aspiring college athlete needs to know before the next live period. From choosing the right camps to managing AAU communication, this episode is your roadmap to navigating basketball recruitment the smart way.Ashley shares honest insight on how to maximize your athlete’s exposure, when to play up versus stick to grade level, and how highlight reels and outreach strategies are really viewed by coaches. Whether you’re new to the AAU scene or knee-deep in recruiting chaos, these strategies will help you prioritize what matters — and avoid costly mistakes.🎯 Want to make sure your athlete isn’t getting overlooked? This episode is packed with tips that will help parents stay ahead of the curve. Key Takeaways:- Recruitment Priorities by Class Year: Know what really matters in each phase of your athlete’s journey.- AAU Communication Strategy: Build strong relationships with coaches to understand where your athlete truly stands.- Camp Strategy: Focus on regional or local camps tied to real offers — not hype events.- Highlight Reels That Work: It’s not about fancy edits — it’s about what coaches need to see first.- Real Practice Over Politics: Get in the gym, get feedback, and stay consistent. That’s how you move forward.🔗 Helpful Links:👥 Join the Basketball Parent Community: https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community 🛍️ Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% offhttps://itsjustdifferentapparel.com ⁠

In this episode of It’s Just Different Podcast, Ashley Roberts sits down with three standout players from New Mexico Junior College to discuss the often-overlooked journey through JUCO basketball.

Hear directly from athletes navigating their path to Division 1 success, including one who earned National Player of the Year honors!From overcoming language barriers to building team chemistry and chasing D1 dreams, this episode offers powerful lessons for parents, athletes, and coaches about growth, resilience, and making the right college decision.🔥 Key Takeaways:✔️ Why JUCO is a powerful stepping stone for D1 success✔️ How social media plays a critical role in today’s recruitment✔️ The mental and physical growth required to make the D1 leap✔️ Why personal development and team chemistry matter most🔗 Helpful Links:👥 Join the Basketball Parent Community: https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community 🛍️ Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% offhttps://itsjustdifferentapparel.com ⁠

Episode Summary:

Think JUCO is just a fallback plan? Think again.In this episode of It’s Just Different Podcast, Ashley Roberts sits down with Coach Mefford of New Mexico Junior College to expose the real advantages of taking the JUCO path. From producing National Players of the Year to building programs that rival Division 1 facilities, this conversation will completely change the way you think about junior college basketball.If your athlete has Division 1 dreams, this episode shows why JUCO might actually be the BETTER path—providing elite development, game experience, and the exposure needed to level up.👀 Don’t miss this one—your athlete’s future could depend on it. Key Takeaways:- JUCO as a Launchpad: Why JUCO offers real opportunities for high-level development and D1 transfers.- Parents’ Role: How to guide without overstepping and help your athlete find the right fit.- D1 Isn’t Always the Best First Step: How JUCO helps athletes truly prepare for higher competition.I- International Influence: How JUCO is becoming a hub for global basketball talent.- Facilities and Development: Why some JUCO programs are outpacing D1 schools in athlete growth.🔗 Helpful Links:📥 Download my FREE Basketball Parent Guide: https://ashleyroberts.kit.com/subscri...👥 Join the Basketball Parent Community: https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community 🛍️ Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% offhttps://itsjustdifferentapparel.com ⁠