NCAA Athletics overview

Collegiate Athletics Cheat Sheet

What is the NCAA?

The National Collegiate Athletic Association is an organization that oversees most 4-year collegiate athletic programs.


How many divisions are there within the NCAA and what are the differences?

Division I – Most intense of the three divisions, it has the greatest level of skill among individual athletes and teams; teams have the greatest amount of travel within the season. Usually these programs are located at bigger university and colleges. Schools are able to offer student athletes scholarship money based on both academic achievement and athletic ability.

Division II – Second highest division of collegiate athletics, high athletic skill level among individuals athletes and teams; a lot of travel but not as intense as Division I. Usually these programs are located at mid-sized colleges and universities. Schools are able to offer student athletes scholarship money based on both academic achievement and athletic ability.

Division III – Third division of college athletics, still a high level of skill among individuals and teams; some travel but not as much as the other two divisions. Usually these programs are located at smaller colleges and universities. Schools are not able to offer athletes scholarship money based on athletic ability, but can offer scholarships based on academic achievement.


What is the NCAA Clearinghouse?

To be able to participate and qualify for athletic scholarships in NCAA sports at the division I and II level, student athletes must register with the NCAA clearinghouse to declare eligibility and verify they meet the minimum academic requirements

Who can make my goal of playing a college sport come true?

YOU! College Coaches are looking for athletes who are athletically talented but also students who are academically successful. They want well-rounded student athletes who are hard-working, motivated, involved, and role models for other student athletes.

Self Discipline

Self discipline in my opinion is doing what will benefit you even when you don't feel like doing it. Personally, I'm not a big fan on motivation, since like most feelings motivation can be here one day and gone the next. The self-disciplined athlete exercises a tool called will. Like the Nike term, sometimes in life you have to will yourself to "just do it", no matter how uninspired, lazy, or tired you are feeling. To act in this manner requires self-discipline. The self-disciplined basketball player does things like:

1. Go to the gym on a Saturday morning to shoot 300 jumpshots, while his/her friends are home sleeping.

2. Arrive early to team practice or stay after 3 times/ week to improve their game

3. Listen to their coach even when frustrated or upset

4. Develops a running/ conditioning regimen and sticks to it rain, sleet or snow

Being self-disciplined is something to exhibit in all areas of your life, not just athletics. In your bright future you are not going to always want to feel like going to class, going to work, or paying bills; however, these are things that have to be done. Become a self-disciplined individual and be a success in basketball and in life!

Are you committed ???

If you are going to reach your potential as a hoopster, you have to develop a committed attitude. By committed I mean, you must be willing to do whatever it takes( legally and safely) to be the best basketball player you can possibly be. Here are 5 ways you can commit that will help you take your game to the next level.

1. Create and stick to a drill session schedule- At least 3 times/ week, commit to a specific workout that involves improving shooting, ball-handling, 1 on 1 moves, defense, etc.

2. Find a basketball mentor- This person could be a current or former coach, a relative, friend of the family or someone whose basketball knowledge you really respect. The right mentor can give you great support and advice on how to get better.

3. Watch a ton of basketball- Watch as much hoops as you can, particularly college basketball. Study how these players move without the ball, set screens, play defense off the ball, get low when driving to the basket, etc.

4. Play pick up ball with those at a similar level or better- You won't get better playing against inferior competition. If you can't play against players close to your level of play or better than you then you are better off doing your own workout.

5. Attend at least 1 summer basketball camp- Why not compete against other talented players and develop new skills? Summer basketball camp can be a great chance to improve on existing strengths and address some weaknesses. Just make sure you choose the camp that will best fit your needs.

Ray Allen's Shooting Tips