June is a very important month of the year for basketball players. It can be the first break of the year from basketball for some. Some are getting breaks from their AAU/travel team schedule. While some high schools are using the opportunity for team bonding and activities. June is also a very important month for development. Since we are almost midway through the month, I felt it is a great opportunity to emphasize it’s importance.
These are the 5 worst things you can do during this month:
Not Attend a Basketball Camp
A couple of weeks ago in my last Ask Po Po video I talked about June being basketball development month. Basketball camps are being hosted all of the US on college campuses, at private schools, at local gyms, etc. As a matter of fact, I just wrapped up my E.L.I.T.E. Academy on Saturday. Camps are the perfect place to learn something new about basketball. It is the perfect place to add something to your game. It is a great opportunity to get around a different group of basketball players.
By not attending a basketball camp, you are setting yourself up to be the exact same player you were with the exact same skills come July, when you get back in front of college coaches and scouts, or next school season. Don’t be that player. If you can’t get to a basketball camp, set up a consistent amount of training sessions with a local basketball trainer.
Put on Weight
There’s nothing worst than having a break from basketball and coming back to the team bigger and slower. It’s OK to take some time away from the game. I actually recommend that you take some time to rest your body, muscles and brain. But while you are on your break, be aware of what you are putting in your body. Stay away from fast foods and sodas every day. Drink plenty of water and eat your fruits and vegetables. If you are the type that trains consistently and work extra, use this month to change up your routine with less pounding on your body. Go swimming or simply walk.
Not Pick Up a Book
Just because you are out of school doesn’t mean you should stop learning and growing. I recommend that you read a book on basketball or something that can help you with basketball. This is another way for you to increase your IQ of the game or you can learn about teamwork, leadership or success.
Not Reach Out to College Coaches
If your team is playing in NCAA-certified events or you are participating in the events as an individual in July, you should be contacting college coaches this month. In my Ask Po Po series, I’ve shared with you How to Get D1 College Schools to look at you (Part I, Part II, Part III). Review the information in the videos. This is the perfect time to reach out to coaches to let them know what events you will be attending next month.
Not Know Where You Stand Academically
School is out so you should have received your report card by now. Or if you can access your grades electronically, you know what you made this past school year. It is getting harder and harder to become academically eligible to play college basketball. Check your grades and core courses to make sure you are on track. Here is a website to help you.
