How To Join AAU Basketball Team: Your Guide

So, you want to know how to join an AAU basketball team? Generally, you join an AAU basketball team by attending tryouts, understanding registration processes, and showcasing your skills to coaches. This guide will walk you through every step, from figuring out what AAU basketball is to making the team and enjoying the AAU basketball season. We’ll cover everything you need to know about finding AAU teams, what to expect at AAU basketball tryouts, and how to make an AAU team.

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What is AAU Basketball?

AAU stands for Amateur Athletic Union. AAU basketball is a popular form of youth basketball that operates outside of the traditional school system. It’s a great way for young athletes to develop their skills, gain exposure, and compete against other talented players from different schools and regions. AAU teams often travel for tournaments, offering a chance to play against a wider variety of competition and experience different playing environments. It’s a key part of the landscape for many aspiring young basketball players looking to hone their craft.

Why Play AAU Basketball?

• Skill Development: AAU programs often have dedicated coaches focused on improving individual player skills.
• Competition: You’ll face a wide range of talent, pushing you to elevate your game.
• Exposure: College coaches and scouts often attend AAU tournaments, providing a platform for visibility.
• Teamwork: You’ll learn to play with different teammates and develop strong team chemistry.
• Travel: Many teams travel to different cities and states for tournaments, offering new experiences.

Finding AAU Teams in Your Area

The first step to joining an AAU basketball team is to identify teams that are active and recruiting in your geographic location. This can seem like a daunting task, but by using a few key strategies, you can effectively pinpoint the opportunities available to you.

Researching Local Youth Basketball Leagues

Many local youth basketball leagues serve as feeders for AAU programs. Participating in these leagues can be a great way to get noticed by coaches who also scout for AAU teams.

How to Find Local Leagues:

• Online Search: Use search engines with terms like “youth basketball leagues near me” or “[your city] basketball programs.”
• Community Centers: Check with your local YMCA, Boys & Girls Clubs, or community recreation centers for their basketball offerings.
• School Programs: While AAU is outside the school system, some school athletic departments may have information about local youth programs.
• Word of Mouth: Talk to coaches, players, and parents involved in youth sports in your area.

Identifying Specific AAU Teams

Once you have a general idea of the youth basketball landscape, you can start looking for actual AAU teams.

Methods for Identifying AAU Teams:

• AAU Website: The official AAU website (aausports.org) has a directory or search function where you can often find registered clubs and teams by state or region.
• Social Media: Many AAU teams and organizations have a presence on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Searching for “[your city] AAU basketball” or “[your state] basketball clubs” can yield results.
• Local Basketball Facilities: Sports complexes that host tournaments or offer training programs are often hubs for AAU team information.
• Ask Coaches and Players: If you’re already playing in a local league or school team, ask your current coach or experienced players if they know of any reputable AAU programs.

Evaluating AAU Teams

Not all AAU teams are created equal. It’s important to find a program that aligns with your goals and offers a positive experience.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an AAU Team:

• Coaching Staff: Research the coaches’ experience, philosophy, and track record.
• Program Reputation: Look for teams with a history of good sportsmanship and player development.
• Tournament Schedule: Understand where the team plans to play and if the travel schedule is manageable for your family.
• Cost: AAU programs typically have fees for uniforms, tournament entries, coaching, and travel. Be sure to inquire about all associated costs.
• Skill Level: Does the team’s competitive level match your own or the level you aspire to?

Preparing for AAU Basketball Tryouts

Once you’ve identified potential teams, the next crucial step is to prepare for their tryouts. AAU basketball tryouts are where coaches evaluate players to see who will fill their rosters. Success at tryouts requires more than just natural talent; it demands preparation, a strong mindset, and a clear understanding of what coaches are looking for.

Developing Your Basketball Skills

Before you even step onto the court for a tryout, focus on honing your fundamental basketball skills.

Key Skills to Focus On:

• Ball Handling: Dribbling with both hands, changing pace and direction effectively, protecting the ball.
• Shooting: Form shooting, catch-and-shoot, off-the-dribble shooting, free throws.
• Passing: Accurate chest passes, bounce passes, overhead passes, and finding open teammates.
• Defense: Stance, footwork, staying in front of your opponent, boxing out, and communicating.
• Rebounding: Boxing out, anticipating the ball’s trajectory, and securing the rebound.

Improving Physical Conditioning

Basketball is a physically demanding sport. Being in good shape will allow you to perform at your best throughout the tryout and the entire AAU basketball season.

Conditioning Drills to Incorporate:

• Cardiovascular Endurance: Running, sprinting, interval training, and playing full-court games.
• Agility and Footwork: Ladder drills, cone drills, defensive slides, and jump rope.
• Strength Training: Bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, push-ups, and core work. Focus on functional strength that translates to the court.
• Explosiveness: Plyometric exercises like jump squats, box jumps, and bounding.

Understanding What Coaches Look For

Coaches at AAU basketball tryouts are looking for a variety of qualities beyond just raw talent. They want players who can contribute to a team’s success both on and off the court.

Coach’s Evaluation Criteria:

• Skill Level: Your ability to execute fundamental basketball skills.
• Basketball IQ: How well you understand the game, make good decisions, and read plays.
• Athleticism: Speed, agility, jumping ability, and stamina.
• Work Ethic: How hard you hustle, your effort level, and your willingness to compete.
• Coachability: Your ability to listen to instructions, adapt, and take feedback.
• Attitude and Sportsmanship: How you interact with teammates and opponents, your positive demeanor, and resilience.
• Fit: Whether your skills complement the needs of the team.

Mental Preparation

The mental aspect of tryouts is just as important as the physical and skill-based aspects. A strong mental game can help you perform under pressure.

Mental Strategies for Tryouts:

• Confidence: Believe in your abilities and trust your preparation.
• Focus: Stay present in the moment and concentrate on each drill and play.
• Resilience: Don’t get discouraged by mistakes. Learn from them and move on.
• Positive Self-Talk: Encourage yourself and maintain a positive attitude.
• Visualization: Imagine yourself performing well during the tryouts.

The AAU Basketball Tryout Process

Navigating AAU basketball tryouts can be nerve-wracking, but knowing what to expect can significantly ease the pressure. Typically, these tryouts are structured events designed to give coaches a clear view of each player’s capabilities.

What Happens at Tryouts?

• Check-in and Registration: You’ll usually need to register upon arrival, often signing in and receiving a numbered bib or jersey to identify you. Be sure to have completed any necessary AAU basketball registration beforehand if required by the specific team.
• Warm-ups: Teams usually start with a group warm-up session to get players loose and ready. This is a good time to show energy and focus.
• Skill Drills: Coaches will often run players through a series of fundamental drills. These might include:
  • Dribbling drills
  • Shooting drills (form, free throws, shooting off the dribble)
  • Passing drills
  • Defensive slide drills
  • Rebounding drills
• Scrimmages or Controlled Games: This is where coaches see how players perform in a game-like situation. They’ll be watching decision-making, court awareness, and how you apply your skills under pressure.
• One-on-One or Small-Sided Games: Sometimes coaches will use these to isolate specific skills or see how players compete head-to-head.

Tips for AAU Basketball Tryouts

Making an AAU team starts with maximizing your performance during the tryout itself. Small details can make a big difference.

Essential AAU Basketball Tryout Tips:

• Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to find the location, check in, and get settled without rushing.
• Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable athletic clothing and good basketball shoes.
• Bring Your Own Equipment: Most tryouts expect you to bring your own water bottle and, if allowed, your own basketball.
• Be Vocal and Energetic: Communicate on defense, cheer for teammates, and show enthusiasm. Coaches notice players who bring positive energy.
• Listen Carefully: Pay close attention to all instructions given by the coaches. Ask clarifying questions if needed.
• Give 100% Effort: Hustle on every drill, dive for loose balls, and play with intensity. Effort is often as important as skill.
• Showcase Your Strengths: While it’s important to show you can do a bit of everything, make sure your best skills are on full display.
• Don’t Be Afraid to Make Mistakes: Everyone makes errors. The key is how you respond. Shake off mistakes quickly and focus on the next play.
• Be a Good Teammate: Even though it’s a tryout, you’re interacting with other potential teammates. Be supportive and positive.
• Ask Questions About the Program: If you have the chance, asking about the team’s philosophy, practice schedule, or tournament plans can show your interest.

What to Expect After Tryouts

The waiting period after tryouts can be stressful. Knowing how and when decisions are communicated can help manage expectations.

Post-Tryout Communication:

• Notification Methods: Teams typically notify players of their decisions via email, phone call, or sometimes by posting a roster on a website or social media page.
• Timeline: Tryout results are usually communicated within a few days to a week after the final tryout session. If you haven’t heard anything by the stated deadline, it’s acceptable to follow up politely with the coach or program organizer.

AAU Basketball Registration and Fees

Once you’ve been offered a spot on an AAU basketball team, there are typically administrative steps and financial commitments involved. This includes AAU basketball registration and paying team fees.

AAU Membership Registration

To participate in AAU-sanctioned events, every player must have an active AAU membership.

Steps for AAU Membership Registration:

1. Visit the AAU Website: Go to aausports.org.
2. Create an Account: If you don’t already have one, you’ll need to create an account.
3. Register as an Athlete: Select the “Register Now” option and choose “Athlete.”
4. Select Sport and District: Choose “Basketball” and your specific AAU district.
5. Complete Athlete Information: Fill out all required personal details.
6. Pay Membership Fee: There will be a fee for the AAU membership, which is typically valid for the membership year.
7. Obtain Membership ID: You will receive an AAU membership ID number, which is essential for team registration.

Team Fees and Expenses

Joining an AAU basketball team comes with various costs that cover the operational expenses of the program.

Common Team Fees and Expenses:

• Program Fees: These are the primary fees and often cover coaching salaries, gym rental for practices, tournament entry fees, and administrative costs.
• Uniforms: This includes jerseys, shorts, and sometimes shooting shirts or warm-ups.
• Travel Expenses: For teams that travel, costs might include transportation, accommodation, and meals for players and coaches. Some programs have a “travel fund” that players contribute to.
• AAU Tournament Entry Fees: While often included in program fees, some teams might require players to chip in extra for premium tournaments.
• Equipment: Some teams might ask players to contribute towards team equipment like practice basketballs or training aids.

Managing Costs:

• Fundraising: Many AAU teams organize fundraising events to help offset costs for players.
• Scholarships/Financial Aid: Some larger or more established programs may offer limited scholarships or financial aid options. Inquire about these possibilities.
• Payment Plans: Ask if the team offers payment plans to break down the fees into manageable installments.

Table: Sample AAU Team Cost Breakdown

It’s crucial to have an open conversation with the coach or team manager about all fees and what they cover before committing to a team.

The AAU Basketball Season

The AAU basketball season is a dynamic period filled with practices, tournaments, and opportunities for growth. It’s a commitment that requires dedication from both the player and their family.

Practice Schedule

Consistent practice is key to improving your skills and building chemistry with your teammates.

What to Expect at Practices:

• Frequency: Teams usually practice 1-3 times per week, depending on the team’s level and the time of year.
• Duration: Practices typically last between 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
• Content: Practices will include skill development drills, offensive and defensive strategy sessions, team-building activities, and conditioning. Coaches will often tailor practices to address weaknesses identified in previous games or to prepare for upcoming opponents.

Tournament Play

Tournaments are the highlight of the AAU basketball season, where teams compete against others from various regions.

Tournament Formats:

• Pool Play: Teams are divided into groups (pools) and play a set number of games against other teams in their pool.
• Bracket Play: After pool play, teams with the best records advance to a single-elimination bracket to determine a champion.
• Showcase Tournaments: These are often attended by college scouts and are designed to give players maximum exposure.

Tournament Frequency:

The number of tournaments a team plays varies. Some teams might play in 3-5 tournaments over the course of a season, while highly competitive teams might participate in 8-12 or even more, especially during the peak season.

Travel Basketball Teams

Many AAU teams are also referred to as travel basketball teams because of the nature of tournament participation. Joining a travel basketball team means you’ll be traveling to different cities, states, and sometimes even out of the country for competitions.

Considerations for Travel Teams:

• Time Commitment: Travel weekends mean time away from home and potentially missing school events or other activities.
• Family Involvement: Families of players often travel to support their children and the team, requiring coordination of travel and accommodation.
• Budgeting: Travel expenses can be significant, so families need to budget accordingly or participate in team fundraising efforts.

Player Development Beyond Tournaments

A good AAU program focuses on developing players holistically, not just on winning games.

Additional Development Opportunities:

• Skill Clinics: Some programs offer specialized clinics focused on shooting, defense, or point guard skills.
• Strength and Conditioning: Many teams have access to or recommend specific strength and conditioning programs.
• Academic Support: Some programs emphasize the importance of academics and may offer tutoring or study hall sessions.

How to Make an AAU Team: Final Thoughts

Joining an AAU basketball team is a rewarding experience that can significantly impact a young athlete’s development. It requires diligent preparation, strategic searching, and a commitment to the process. By focusing on skill development, physical conditioning, and understanding what coaches are looking for, you can greatly increase your chances of making a select basketball team.

Remember that every AAU basketball tryout is an opportunity to showcase your best self. Be confident, work hard, and be a great teammate. The AAU basketball season is a journey, and being part of a team is about more than just individual performance; it’s about collective growth and shared experiences. Good luck in your quest to join an AAU basketball team!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the age range for AAU basketball?
AAU basketball typically caters to youth players, with age groups generally ranging from under 8 (U8) up to under 17 (U17) or under 19 (U19). Specific age cutoffs are usually based on the player’s age as of a certain date (e.g., August 31st of the current year).

Q2: Can I play AAU basketball if I play other sports?
Yes, many athletes play multiple sports during their youth. However, it’s important to communicate with your AAU coach about your commitments to other sports or activities to ensure you can meet the team’s expectations for practices and tournaments. Prioritizing can be important as the AAU season can be demanding.

Q3: How do I find AAU basketball tryout locations?
AAU basketball tryout locations are typically advertised by the individual AAU clubs or teams. You can find these locations by:
* Checking the AAU website for registered clubs in your area.
* Searching team or club social media pages.
* Looking at local basketball facility schedules.
* Asking coaches or players in local youth basketball leagues.
* Keeping an eye out for flyers or announcements in sports complexes.

Q4: What if I miss the official tryouts for an AAU team?
Some teams hold multiple tryout dates. If you miss all scheduled tryouts, you can contact the team directly to inquire if they have any remaining spots or if they are still holding individual tryouts. Sometimes, teams will hold open gym sessions where they continue to evaluate players.

Q5: Is AAU basketball more competitive than school basketball?
Generally, AAU basketball can be more competitive than regular school basketball, especially at higher levels. This is because AAU teams draw players from various schools, often assembling highly skilled rosters. The competition level, however, can vary significantly from one AAU team or tournament to another.

Q6: What is the difference between an AAU team and a select basketball team?
The terms “AAU team” and “select basketball team” are often used interchangeably, especially in the context of youth basketball. AAU refers to the sanctioning body (Amateur Athletic Union) that oversees many of these competitive youth sports programs. A “select basketball team” is a more general term for a team that is not school-based and typically requires tryouts and draws players from a wider geographic area to compete in tournaments. Most competitive select teams operate under an AAU umbrella to participate in sanctioned events.