By Kevin Agee
There are a number of factors that determine whether or not a student-athlete will be recruited to play at the next level. Ability is the most common attribute, however there are other factors besides ability that play a part in a coach’s decision to offer a player a scholarship, or spot on the team.
College coaches look for traits that can not be taught. Coaches like athleticism, size and speed. Since these “gifts” can not necessarily be learned, coaches are intrigued by student-athletes who possess them. Most coaches believe they can teach the game to players who possess these intangible characteristics if the players are willing to listen and learn.
There are other innate factors that coaches look for. Coaches at all levels need student-athletes with heart, determination and perseverance. Coaches recruit hard workers and leaders. Just like the “gifts” listed above, these characteristics play a large role in the recruiting process. A player can have all of the natural ability in the world, but if they do not possess these other characteristics they will never reach their full potential.
Some athletes are fortunate enough to be blessed with certain skills and physical attributes. However, most coaches prefer an intelligent, hard working basketball player as opposed to a basketball player with ability that does not possess these other attributes.
