Shows
PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastThe 2026 Prep School Basketball State of the UnionThis episode is Cory Heitz’s 2025 Prep School Basketball State of the Union, recorded after a December New England trip packed with campus visits, coach meetings, and real conversations about what’s changing right now in prep school basketball. Cory also opens with a heartfelt tribute to Whit Lesure, a true prep school legend whose impact on Bridgton Academy and college placement can’t be overstated. From there, Cory gets practical. Why college placement is taking longer, what the transfer portal changed, and why families need to stop expecting old timelines. He talks NIL resources some prep programs are offeri...
2026-01-0623 min
PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastDwayne Pina St. George’s Coach on AA Prep HoopsSt. George’s head coach and admissions officer Dwayne Pina joins Cory to walk through one of the most complete prep school basketball journeys you will ever hear. Coach Pina shares exactly what he looks for in recruits, how he developed Tyler Kolek into an NBA guard, what changed when St. George’s moved from Class B to NEPSAC AA, and why physical tools now separate many Division I guards from the pack. If you are weighing AA vs single-A vs public school and care about both college placement and life after hoops, this conversation is a must...
2025-12-0942 min
PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastNemo Maric: How Hoosac Prepares Players for College HoopsNemo (Nemanja) Maric, head coach at Hoosac School / ISA (AAA), joins Cory to unpack a true Euro–U.S. hybrid approach to prep school basketball development. Maric shares his journey from Serbia and a 13-year pro career to building a multinational roster under one roof—where 20+ countries train, lift, and study within a system that blends European team concepts (spacing, reads, ball movement) with American individual creativity (one-on-one scoring, athletic standards). He explains why multi-sport participation helps athletes’ decision-making and body awareness, how ISA–Hoosac runs open gyms that draw 100+ college programs, and why honest, low-turnover guards who kick out on p...
2025-11-2736 min
PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastKenya Jones: Class B, Big Results—Brooks School’s BlueprintKenya Jones, Head Coach and Associate Director of Admissions at Brooks School (MA), joins Cory for a straight, practical talk about prep school basketball, player development, and college placement in today’s NIL/transfer-portal era. Jones explains why Brooks is “a school that happens to be good at basketball,” and how a culture of multi-sport participation, arts, and academics creates tougher, smarter, more coachable athletes. He details what he really recruits—character, independence, and fit—and how self-driven development (open runs, morning gym, weight room cadence) prepares players for NEPSAC competition and college standards.You’ll hear an honest br...
2025-11-1134 min
PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastBen Veshi: How Hargrave Builds College-Ready GuardsHargrave Military Academy head coach Ben Veshi joins Cory to give a straight, inside look at prep school basketball, player development, and college placement in 2025. Veshi explains Hargrave’s structured, military-style environment, why it accelerates maturity and on-court performance, and how the program’s two-a-days, weight room cadence, and ~50-game schedule prepare athletes for college intensity. He breaks down today’s recruiting reality—why the summer evaluation period and a program’s reputation/relationships now drive offers more than fall open gyms, how the transfer portal and NIL changed timelines, and when a D2 full ride can be the smartest p...
2025-10-2850 min
PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastChristina Batastini: St. Andrew’s Coach on D1 Guard MustsStanford Final Four guard, pro vet, and USA Basketball 3x3 U23 coach Christina Batastini joins Cory to deliver clear, no-nonsense guidance for families navigating prep school basketball. Now the head coach at St. Andrew’s School (NEPSAC AAA), Christina breaks down what truly translates to college—defending your position, decision-making, and making teammates better—and why the Ivy League is real Division I basketball. She explains the prep vs AAU recruiting dynamic, the difference between offers and interest, and how the transfer portal has shifted commitment timelines (and why late spring/summer decisions are increasingly normal). You’ll also hear how...
2025-09-301h 06
PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastGeorge White RecruitU Founder on College Recruiting TruthsIn this episode of the PREP Athletics Podcast, Cory Heitz sits down with George White, former Division I player at Harvard, longtime college coach across D3, D2, D1, and the NBA/G-League, and founder of RecruitU. George brings unmatched perspective from both coaching and recruiting sides of the game, helping families cut through the noise and focus on finding the right fit for their student-athletes.He shares why hope is not a strategy in recruiting, how families should approach early commitments in today’s transfer portal era, and what really separates G-League players from NBA players. George al...
2025-08-2655 min
PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastDan McHale: D1 Coach Reveals Recruiting RealitiesDan McHale—former D1 head coach at Eastern Kentucky and long-time assistant under Rick Pitino, Tubby Smith, and Kevin Willard—joins Cory Heitz to pull back the curtain on what college coaches actually look for in recruits. From his start as a student manager at Kentucky during their 1998 national title run, to coaching in the Big East, Big Ten, and Mountain West, Dan’s career is packed with insider knowledge.In this episode, Dan shares what really matters when trying to land a D1 scholarship, why relationships are everything, and how families should think about prep school, JUCO...
2025-07-2240 min
PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastAlex Gallagher: Why D1-or-Bust Hurts Players and FamiliesIn this episode, Cory welcomes Alex Gallagher, head girls basketball coach and longtime faculty member at Nobles and Greenough School, a top-tier prep school in Boston. With 25 years of coaching and mentoring under his belt, Coach Gallagher shares real-world insights for parents, players, and coaches navigating the prep school basketball journey.You’ll hear his direct take on how youth sports culture has shifted, why love and accountability are cornerstones of his program, and what families need to prioritize when selecting a prep school. He also reveals the hard truths about college placement—including the “D1 or bust”...
2025-07-081h 04
PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastHanno Möttölä: NBA Pioneer & International Coach on What It Takes to Go ProThis week, Cory sits down with Hanno Möttölä—Finland’s first NBA player, University of Utah Hall of Famer, and current assistant coach for the Finnish national team. Hanno’s journey spans from dominating youth basketball in Europe to starring for Utah in the NCAA championship game, breaking into the NBA with the Atlanta Hawks, and later shaping European and Finnish basketball as a coach. In this episode, Hanno delivers practical, no-nonsense advice for families navigating the prep school and college basketball pipeline. He breaks down what truly separates future pros: the will and skill to practice, finding t...
2025-06-241h 20
PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastAlex Popp of Winchendon School Talks NEPSAC Basketball, Player Development, and College RecruitmentCory welcomes back Coach Alex Popp, one of prep basketball’s most respected voices, now the new head coach at The Winchendon School in Massachusetts. With a background that includes leading Vermont Academy, five years at powerhouse IMG Academy, and a post-grad playing year at Northfield Mount Hermon, Coach Popp brings unmatched perspective on what it takes for players to thrive in the NEPSAC and beyond. In this candid conversation, Alex breaks down the real factors families must weigh: Should your child chase playing time on a less talented team, or compete for minutes on a stacked roster? How do...
2025-05-2739 min
PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastCurtis Peery of Massanutten Reveals D1 Recruiting Truths & Navigating Transfer Portal EraIn this revealing episode of the PREP Athletics Podcast, Cory sits down with Curtis Peery, Head Coach of Massanutten Military Academy's post-graduate basketball program. Coach Peery, a former D1 assistant at Maryland Eastern Shore, shares a major program update - Massanutten's basketball players no longer participate in military drills, making it significantly more appealing to recruits. Peery provides an insider's look at what Division I coaches actually discuss in recruiting rooms, emphasizing how small details like hustle and effort often determine scholarship offers. With his team finishing third in the Elite Prep League and reaching the Elite Eight nationally...
2025-05-1327 min
PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastCary Herer of CATS Academy: Exposure & College PathwaysThis week, host Cory Heitz sits down with Cary Herer, Head Coach at CATS Academy Boston and a driving force behind one of NEPSAC AA’s fastest-rising prep basketball programs. Cary brings a unique blend of experience, from playing under John Calipari at UMass to building powerhouse grassroots teams and now leading CATS Academy into the elite NEBL league. In this candid conversation, Cary breaks down what truly sets CATS apart: relentless player development, unmatched college exposure, and a no-nonsense approach to preparing athletes for the next level. He shares how his program guarantees improvement and visibility, but never pr...
2025-04-2953 min
PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastShavar Bernier of Taft School: Finding Your College FitIn this compelling episode of the PREP Athletics Podcast, Cory sits down with Shavar Bernier, head basketball coach at the prestigious Taft School. Bernier shares his unique journey from being a first-team all-state player in New Hampshire to taking a gap year, attending Bridgton Academy, and eventually finding his way to Connecticut College before becoming a successful prep school coach. With remarkable candor, Bernier discusses his coaching philosophy centered on hard work, grit, and love for the game, while offering invaluable insights into how Taft prepares student-athletes for college basketball. Parents and players will appreciate his honest perspective on...
2025-04-1553 min
PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastSecrets to Peak Performance with Alan Stein Jr., Speaker, Author, and Performance CoachJoin host Cory Heitz on the PREP Athletics Podcast as he interviews renowned basketball performance coach and motivational speaker, Alan Stein Jr. In this engaging episode, Alan shares his incredible journey from being a college basketball player to becoming a sought-after performance coach for elite athletes. With years of experience working with top talent, Alan offers invaluable insights into the psychology of performance, the importance of preparation, and the secrets to achieving success on and off the court.📌 Key Points:Alan's Journey: From college basketball at Elon University to a career in per...
2024-06-2454 min
PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastThere Is No Crystal Ball in Prep School BasketballIn this bonus episode of the Prep Athletics Podcast, Cory Heitz discusses the lack of a crystal ball in prep school basketball and the importance of making the best decision possible. He emphasizes the role of the coach in choosing a prep school and advises families to do their due diligence and research. He also shares his own experience of attending a military academy's prep school and the positive outcomes that can come from taking a leap of faith. He encourages listeners to make the best choice they can, but reminds them that nothing is permanent and changes can...
2024-05-0707 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastPrep School Basketball Summit: Strategies and Advice from Leading CoachesIn this episode, Coach Cory is joined by Coach Trey Morin of Phelps School, Coach John Zall of Vermont Academy, and Coach Lamar Reddicks of Milton Academy. They discuss current trends in the prep school world. They highlight the importance of prep school as an option for players, especially with colleges trending older and the need for advocates in the recruiting process. The coaches emphasize the exposure and connections they have to college coaches, which helps their players get placed in college. They also discuss the importance of finding the right fit for players and how prep schools prepare...
2024-04-2258 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastMy Trip to The 2024 Final FourSummaryIn this bonus episode of the Prep Athletics podcast, Coach Cory recaps his experience at the 2024 Final Four. He flew down to Phoenix to support his cousin Brad Miller, who played for Purdue. He describes the mix of fans from each school, with Purdue, NC State, UConn, and Alabama all showing strong support. Cory shares his experience at a packed Purdue bar, where Brad was treated like a celebrity. He also mentions celebrity sightings and the excitement of being in a stadium with a large crowd. Cory concludes by expressing his enjoyment of the...
2024-04-1506 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastFrom Prep School Admissions to College Placement feat. Joe Busacca, Head Coach of Hotchkiss SchoolSummaryIn this episode of the Prep Athletics Podcast, host Cory Heitz interviews Joe Busacca, the head coach of Hotchkiss School. They discuss the unique aspects of Hotchkiss as a high academic prep school, including its location, boarding program, and extensive facilities. Busacca emphasizes the importance of building personal connections with his players and helping them improve their skills. He also talks about the college placement process and the role of essays and interviews in the admissions process. Busacca shares his approach to recruiting and developing players, as well as the benefits of having a smaller...
2024-04-0138 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastFrom Prep School to Division I with Hollman SmithDescription:In this podcast episode, Cory interviews Hollman, a former prep school basketball player who is now a walk-on at James Madison University. They discuss Hollman's decision to do a post-graduate year, his experience at Tilton School, the benefits and challenges of prep school basketball, dealing with homesickness, and how prep school prepared him for Division I basketball. They also talk about the importance of choosing the right coach, Hollman's decision to attend James Madison, his experience as a walk-on, and the unseen pressures in Division I basketball. Hollman shares advice for kids considering a post-graduate...
2024-02-1920 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastThe Differences Between Boys and Girls in Prep School Basketball w/ Coach Thomas Adams-WallSummaryIn this episode of the Prep Athletics Podcast, host Cory Heitz interviews Coach Thomas Adams-Wall from Western Reserve Academy. They discuss various topics, including growing up on a prep school campus, the benefits of playing multiple sports, choosing the College of Wooster, coaching at Western Reserve Academy, recruiting and college exposure, admissions for student-athletes, coaching McDonald's All-American Chris Livingston, the challenges of placing girls in prep schools, placing boys and girls in college, admissions criteria for student-athletes, and more. Coach Adams-Wall shares his insights and experiences as both a coach and an admission officer at...
2024-01-2232 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastCory's Basketball Pre-Game Music from 8th Grade to Senior Year of College (EXPLICIT LANGUAGE)In this mini episode I share my pre-game songs from 8th grade all the way to my senior year at the United States Air Force Academy. Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1AwdczK0cSXqpdiMNxDMeY?si=917a1d99688249bb🔗 Connect with Cory: Website | https://www.prepathletics.com Twitter | https://twitter.com/PREP_Athletics Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep.athletics/Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/PrepAthletics Email | coryheitz@gmail.com Phone | 859-317-1166 🔖 Subscribe to the PREP Athletics Podcast: iTunes | https...
2023-11-1318 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastFormer Ivy League Assistant + Current Cushing Academy Head Basketball Coach, James CormierIn this episode of the PREP Athletics podcast, we welcome Cushing Academy's head boys basketball coach James Cormier. James spent two years at Proctor Academy before playing at Le Moyne College. After his college career he got into coaching and worked at Northfield Mount Hermon under legendary coach, John Carroll. From here he worked as an assistant at Dartmouth where his father was head coach at the time. James has been at Cushing for over six years and has had great success to include coaching current NBA player David Duke Jr of the Brooklyn Nets. In this c...
2023-05-2259 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastMy Cold Water Experiences w/ Wim Hof, Laird Hamilton, + Gabby ReeceIn this mini episode we discuss my experiences w/ cold water. It started when I went to train w/ Laird Hamilton and Gabby Reece at their home in Malibu. From here I was hooked. I bought a chest freezer for my home in DC and now where I live in Colorado I take advantage of the frigid mountain streams. In February 2020 I went to Poland to train w/ the Iceman himself; Wim Hof. This five day experience changed my life. We also discuss some tips for how to handle the cold, hiking w/ no shirt on in 17...
2023-05-0814 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastFormer George Washington/Siena/Mt St Mary's D1 Head Basketball Coach Jamion ChristianIn this week’s episode we are joined by former D1 Head Coach Jamion Christian. Jamion was a D1 assistant at Bucknell, William & Mary, and VCU before becoming serving as head coach at Mount St Mary’s, Siena, then George Washington. Jamion played D1 at Mount Saint Marys. In this episode we talk about the transition from an assistant to head coach, his recruiting philosophies, how to choose your assistant coaches, the differences between D1 levels, what it takes for a guard to play at the different D1 levels and so much more. Jamion and I have been friends since 20...
2023-04-241h 08PREP Athletics Basketball Podcast2 Sport D1 Athlete who is the Head Coach at NEPSAC AAA, Newman School feat. Jackson JohnsonOn this week's podcast I am joined by Newman School Head Coach, Jackson Johnson. Jackson played baseball at Tulane for 2 years before switching over to play basketball for the Green Wave. We talk about how he chose Tulane, what he learned playing two sports at the D1 level, coaching at the Newman School and more. Connect w/ Jackson Twitter | https://twitter.com/JJohnson_49 Website | https://twitter.com/newman_hoops?lang=en Email | jackson.johnson079@gmail.com Phone | 904-612-4949 🔗 Connect with Cory: Website | https://www.prepathletics.com Twitt...
2023-04-1035 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastFrom D1 Special Assistant to Prep School feat. Western Reserve Academy's Coach Matt GarveyIn this episode we welcome one of Western Reserve Academy's coaches: Matt Garvey. Matt went to prep school at New Hampton before attending Providence where he was a manager. After this he was a special assistant to Coach Ed Cooley where he worked in the video department. Now at Western Reserve Academy in Hudson Ohio, Matt talks about the program, their competition, placing players and more. Connect w/ Matt Twitter | https://twitter.com/WRA_Hoops Website | https://www.wra.net/athletics/ourteam... Email | garveym@wra.net Connect with Cory:
2023-04-0419 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastHow Spending 14 Hours a Weekend on a Tractor During My Teenage Years Helped Me in Sports + LifeFor six years I lived on a ten acre farm in Central Kentucky. We did not have animals or crops, but we had grass. My father wanted the ten acres to look like a golf course. It took fourteen hours to mow the ten acres and another 2-3 to weedeat around all of the trees and fences. While this felt like a burden and punishment as a teenage, I reflect in this bonus podcast on how this actually helped me become the man I am today. Teens these days could use this time to not be stimulated, and just...
2023-03-0607 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastHollywood Actor Josh Hopkins Talks UK Basketball, Hanging w/ Leo DiCaprio, Jerry Maguire + Much MoreOn this week’s episode we welcome Hollywood actor Josh Hopkins. I went to the same school as Josh in Lexington Kentucky in the late 80s. I was in 6th grade while he was a senior. In this episode we talk about the passion among the University of Kentucky basketball fans, getting into acting, hanging out with Leonardo DiCaprio, reading with Tom Cruise for Jerry Maguire, having a father who was elected into the US House of Representatives, hosting a podcast with Rex Chapman and more. Josh is a natural in front of the camera and we had a bl...
2023-02-201h 02PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastUSA Today Sports Journalist Josh Peter on Donda Academy, Interviewing Michael Jordan, Magic + MoreIn this week's episode we welcome USA Today's Josh Peter to the podcast. This was our first time having a sports journalist on the show and Josh shared some good advice and stories. In this episode we talk about Josh's path to ending up at USA Today, some of his biggest stories, dream interviews, top sporting events he has seen live, interviewing Magic and Michael Jordan, and how one can get into the sports journalism world. Connect w/ Josh: USA Today: https://www.usatoday.com/staff/2647383001/josh-peter/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/joshlpeter11?lang=en Emai...
2023-02-0653 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastFrom Prep School to D1 to Regularly Playing Basketball w/ President Obama feat. Romone PennyOn this week’s episode we welcome Romone Penny. Romone went to Mercersburg Academy for a post-grad year before playing at Florida State. He then transferred to American University where he last game as a senior was in the NCAA tournament. While living in DC he was invited to play basketball with President Obama and became a regular at those weekly runs. He now runs Pursuit Sports Group where he helps athletes with financial planning and literacy. Romone is an old friend who I was excited to have on the podcast. Connect w/ RomoneWebsite: https://www.pursui...
2023-01-2353 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastTop Prep School + College Recruiting Questions Answered feat. South Kent's Coach Raphael ChilliousOn this episode we welcome Coach Raphael Chillious of the South Kent School back to the podcast. I wanted to have Coach Chillious back to go over some of the most asked questions in the prep school and college recruiting world. In this episode we answer the following questions and more:-Is it better for a player to leave high school early to go to a prep school for multiple years, or graduate from their current school and just do a post-grad year? -What is the difference between a preferred walk-on, recruited walk-on, and walk-on? ...
2023-01-0936 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastConversation With a Former D1 Walk On + Current International Basketball Agent - Kevin TarcaOn this week’s episode we welcome agent Kevin Tarca. Kevin is the founder of Kreation Talent Agency and a former D1 basketball walk-on at Quinnipiac University. In this episode we talk about the pros and cons of being a D1 walk on, why Kevin became an agent, traveling the globe, making in person connections, the confusion about “playing overseas” and much more. Connect w/ KevinWebsite: https://www.kevintarca.com/Twitter: https://twitter.com/kevin_tarcaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/kevintarca/Email: kevin@kreationtalent.comConnect with Cory:Website...
2022-12-2652 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastMeet the Psychologist Who Is Also the Head Coach at The Frederick Gunn School feat. Dr. Brian KonikThis week we welcome Dr. Brian Konik to the podcast. Brian is a psychologist and also the head boys basketball coach at The Frederick Gunn School. Brian has a unique background that most basketball coaches don’t. In this episode we talk about: -the benefits of Brian being a psychologist and a coach-mental health trends he is seeing with today’s teenagers-suggestions he gives to improve mental health in our teens -playing in NEPSAC Class B-his time with the Naval Academy basketball team-the uniqueness of his school-playing multiple...
2022-12-131h 02PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastVisiting 17 Prep Schools, College Placement, Exposure Events, College Coaches - Fall 2022 UpdateIn November 2022 I took my annual New England road trip. During this week I visited 17 prep schools and attending the National Prep School Showcase. In this mini podcast I share my observations which include: -New prep school coaches -Schools owned by the Chinese -What college coaches are saying about recruiting -Parents concerns about college placement Connect with Cory:Website | https://www.prepathletics.comTwitter | https://twitter.com/PREP_AthleticsInstagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep_athletics/Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/PrepAthleticsEmail | coryheitz@gmail.comPhone | 859-317...
2022-11-2911 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastNavy Seal + NCAA Lacrosse Champion + Hollywood Actor - CDR Rorke DenverOn this podcast we had the pleasure to speak with Navy Seal Commander, Rorke Denver. Rorke is a neighbor of mine in Colorado and we have gotten to know each other over the past few years. We both love dipping in cold creeks and have done so down the canyon in Cleark Creek. Rorke is a dynamo! An NCAA national champion lacrosse player at Syracuse, and defensive All American. We talk about getting into lacrosse by accident, choosing Syracuse, and nature vs. nurture. We then delve into the Navy Seals selection process and how to make it through. His...
2022-11-2158 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastUpdate on the State of Basketball Academies (Fall 2022)This short podcast is a refresher on the basketball academy world. Each week a family asks me about these options, and I wanted to put out a current video on the present state of this world. As I always say, "Do your due diligence." Here are some links that are mentioned in this podcast: > Prep Schools VS Basketball Academies: What Are The Difference And Why Does It Matter? > Questions You Need To Ask Before Going to a Basketball Academy > The Difference Between Brick and Mortar Prep Schools and Basketball Academies C...
2022-10-3111 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastHigh School Champ, NCAA Champ, Bronze Medal Winner, + NBA Champ Feat. Former KU Big Man Sasha KaunIn this episode we welcome High School, NCAA, and NBA champion Sasha Kaun. Sasha came from Russia at the age of 16 to Florida Air Academy. He didn’t speak any English. Within three years he learned to speak the language, won a state title and got a scholarship to Kansas. After winning an NCAA title he was the last draft pick in the history of the Seattle Supersonics. He chose instead to play in Europe before coming back to the NBA in 2015 to play for the Cavs. That was the year the Cavs won the title. In this episode we talk a...
2022-10-1736 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastFrom D1 Assistant to the NEPSAC AAA to a Southern Prep School feat. Coach Nick WhitmoreOn this week’s episode we welcome Coach Nick Whitmore. Nick is the son of a former D1 head coach and spent his college years as a student assistant at both Rhode Island and Boise State. Nick then went to coach under Rex Walters at the University of San Francisco. Nick went back to his home state to be an assistant at NEPSAC AAA school New Hampton. After a few years he was promoted to the head coach. Since 2018 Nick has been the head coach at the Asheville School in North Carolina. On this episode we talk about recruiting at Ashev...
2022-10-0344 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastPlaying at Prep School + For Your Hall of Fame Father, Coach John Calipari at UK feat. Brad CalipariOn this episode we welcome Coach Brad Calipari. I have known Brad since I coached him at the Lexington Christian Academy in Lexington Ky. He went from there to play at MacDuffie which is a New England prep school. From here he played for his father, Hall of Fame coach, John Calipari at the University of Kentucky. He then transferred to play at Detroit Mercy. After graduation he was an assistant coach at UK with his father before taking a job as an assistant under Coach Rod Strickland at LIU Brooklyn. In this episode we talk about Brad’s decisio...
2022-09-1931 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastEverything You Need to Know About NCAA Eligibility Feat: Holly Smith AbbottOn this week’s podcast we are joined by Holly Smith Abbott. Holly ran track and cross country at Wofford University before working in compliance at the University of Richmond. From here she went to work for the NCAA as the Assistant Director of International Academic Certification in the Eligibility Center at the NCAA National Office. She was responsible for validating and certifying the academic credentials of prospective international student-athletes from around the world. Holly has fifteen years’ experience in evaluating international academic credentials. In 2014 she left the NCAA and started her own consulting company called, International Credential and Sport A...
2022-09-0559 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastWhat Are The 5 Things A Basketball Player Needs to Include On Their Highlight Video (+ 5 to Exclude)In this mini podcast Coach Cory talks about the top 5 things you need to include in your basketball highlight video, as well as what to leave out. Your highlight video is a prep school or college coaches first look at you and first impressions are important. In this Coach Cory will talk about: -length, bio page, grouping skills together, having game tape ready and more. If you like this episode feel free to subscribe to my channel on YouTube or to my podcasting sites listed below. Connect with Cory: Website | https://www.prepathletics.com Twitter | htt...
2022-08-2210 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastWhat is a Post-Grad Year for Basketball? Who Should/Should NOT Look Into Doing One.In this mini episode Cory talks about the basics of a post-grad year. He mentions the four benefits which include growth in basketball, academics, and emotional maturity. There are also cultural benefits as well. He also talks about what kind of players prep school coaches and admission departments are looking for. Prep school is not for everyone and he lists what type of player should pause before pursuing this option. Connect with Cory: Website | https://www.prepathletics.com Twitter | https://twitter.com/PREP_Athletics Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep_athletics/ Facebook | https://ww...
2022-08-0811 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastHow Louis Tang Went From Not Speaking English to 3 Years Later Playing D1 at VMIIn this mini-episode we start our series on PREP Athletics success stories. First is highlighting VMI forward Louis Tang. Louis came to the US from Taiwan and didn't speak any English. He sacrificed a year of team basketball to learn the language and the US culture. His last two years of high school he played in the WCAC which is the best high school basketball conference in the US. From here he earned a D1 scholarship to VMI. Find out how he did it and the sacrifices he made in this episode. Connect with Cory: Website | http...
2022-07-2506 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastBillionaire Sports Stars, NIL Forecasting, Secrets of D1 Basketball + much more feat. Andrew PetcashOn this week’s podcast we are joined by Andrew Petcash. Andrew played D1 at Boston University and at the end of 2021 shared his first post on what became The Petcash Post. In this informative conversation we talk about playing D1 versus being in the military, things no one tells you about D1, NIL deals, the NCAA transfer rule, picking an agent, becoming a billionaire and much more. What You Will Learn:[1:59] When did Andrew realize he had something important to share? [2:32] What story got Andrew interested in this topic?[3:26] Where did you feature thes...
2022-07-111h 15PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastCan International Basketball Players Play at a US Prep School? YES they can!In this mini episode we talk about the option of international basketball players attending a US prep school. Prep schools love international players and the diversity they bring. Coaches do as well. Find out why prep schools like these players and learn about how financial aid works. 🔗 Connect with Cory: Website | https://www.prepathletics.com Twitter | https://twitter.com/PREP_Athletics Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep.athletics/Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/PrepAthletics Email | coryheitz@gmail.com Phone | 859-317-1166 🔖 Subscribe to the...
2022-06-2708 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastNew York Times Photographer + Former NAIA Big Man - David Maurice SmithOn this week’s podcast we welcome David Maurice Smith. David grew up in Vancouver British Columbia and played college basketball at Simon Frazier University. After traveling the world he settled in Australia with his family where he is a professional photographer. David has been featured in cover stories for The New York Times Magazine. In this episode we talk about First Blood being filmed in his neighborhood while he was a kid, playing against Steve Nash, celebrity encounters, living in Australia and more. David is one of my brothers and we have a good time swapping stories. This is an ex...
2022-06-131h 12PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastPlaying for Coach Calipari, Coaching D1, D3 + at Elite Level Prep Schools feat. Coach Mike ByrnesMike Byrnes is the head coach at The Tilton School which is located in New Hampshire. This is Mike’s first year at Tilton. Mike grew up in Massachusettes before completing a post grad year at Fork Union. He then played at St Francis (PA) before transferring to UMass. Here he played under first year head coach John Calipari. After this Mike had stints coaching in the prep school world to include Hargrave Military and Winchendon. After being a D1 assistant at Robert Morris and the head coach at D3 Rhode Island College, Mike got back into the prep school...
2022-05-3057 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastThe Beginners Guide to NAIA Basketball w/ NAIA National Championship Winning Coach - Kelly WellsKelly Wells is the former head basketball coach of the University of Pikeville. As a high schooler he was one of the top players in the state of Kentucky and led his team to three straight trips to the Sweet Sixteen. After graduation he played at Tulsa before transferring to Morehead State. He won a state title as head coach at Mason County High School where he coached Kentucky’s Mr. Basketball, eventual NCAA champion and NBA player Darius Miller. From here he coached one year at Hawaii Pacific before taking over at the University of Pikeville. During his ti...
2022-05-1646 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastTop 5 Ways To Get Your Prep School Tuition LoweredIn this short episode we go over the 5 ways to get money off of your prep school tuition. Know that none of these ways are guaranteed, but I have seem them work over the years. 1) Have good grades 2) Be from a geographical area not represented in the school's student body 3) Be a good athlete 4) Qualify for need based financial aid 5) Be an interesting kid Connect with Cory:Website | https://www.prepathletics.comInstagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep_athletics/Twitter | https://twitter.com/PREP_AthleticsFacebook | https://www...
2022-05-0206 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastCoaching D1 Players, LaMelo Ball, Oliver Stone + more from Hill School Head Coach Seth EilbergSeth Eilberg is the head coach at The Hill School which is located in Pottstown, Pennsylvania. Seth has been at Hill since 2001 and in during that time has placed players at all levels of college basketball. In this podcast we discuss what guards need to make it to the college level, the MAPL league, the transfer portal, the founder of 5 Hour Energy, hosting LaMelo Ball and much more. Enjoy the podcast! What You Will Learn:[1:38] What does Seth look for when recruiting guards?[3:29] What do characteristics do Hill guards that were placed in D1 programs p...
2022-04-1846 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastWhen Is The Best Time of the Year to Reach Out to Prep School Basketball Coaches?Players reach out every day of the year wanting to go to a prep school. A lot of families have asked me if they are too early or too late. There is not wrong answer but there are advantages to starting in the Fall and there are other advantages for exploring options in the Spring and Summer. This short episode gives you a breakdown of the pros and cons of each. If you have a specific questionConnect with Cory: Website | https://www.prepathletics.com Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep_athlet... Twitter...
2022-04-0406 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastFormer CAA + Ivy League Assistant, and Current Cheshire Academy Coach Jim McCarthyJim McCarthy is the head coach at Cheshire Academy. After playing at Hamilton, Jim coached at Williams where he won a D3 national championship. From there he coached D1 at Yale, Northeastern ,and Towson. In this conversation we discuss the differences between playing D1 vs D3, what it takes to be a D1 player, the pros/cons of being a walk-on, the differences between NEPSAC AAA, AA, and A programs, and more. What you will learn:[1:42] What made Jim want to get into college coaching?[6:01] Difference between high level D3 and the Ivy league?[8:29] Pros...
2022-03-211h 05PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastFormer NBA Player and Author Paul Shirley Talks High Major College BBall, Making It to the Pros + Scottie PippenIn this week’s episode we welcome author and former NBA player Paul Shirley to the podcast. Paul has written four books to include one that covers his journey from college, to playing international to eventually making it to the NBA. Paul discusses coming from a small town, what was inside him that gave him that drive to make it to the NBA, and the best and worst parts of playing at a high major college, internationally and the NBA. We also talk about some stories from his books to include yelling at Scottie Pippen on the Bulls team plane...
2022-03-071h 00PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastTOP 5 High School Basketball Questions Answered by Former D1 Player + Coach - Dave TaylorIn this week’s episode we have the honor of talking to Coach Dave Taylor. Dave was Cory’s coach at Air Force and the two have traveled the world for the game of basketball. Dave is one of the top coaches that Cory has ever been around and he wanted to ask Coach Taylor some of the main questions that players and their families ask on a continual basis. -How do you find a good AAU team? -Is it better to play on a less talented team or sit the bench on a team w/ more talent?
2022-02-211h 11PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastLessons + Stories from One of the Top Basketball Trainers in the United States feat. Evolution Basketball's Alex HarrisIn this episode we welcome the founder of Evolution Basketball, Alex Harris. Alex played his high school ball for national ranked Gonzaga College High School in Washington DC. He played D1 at American University and made the all freshman team for the conference. After a coaching change he transferred to D2 Le Moyne College. He shares his thoughts in this conversation about the differences between the D1 and D2 levels, why he started training players, and what makes his system so successful, as well as what a player needs to possess to play at the college level. Alex shares the 5...
2022-02-071h 20PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastName Image + Likeness (NIL) 101 - Everything a High School/College Athlete Needs to Know!In this episode we welcome Tom Bower and Ryan Maxwell of The Virtus Brand. We take the time to discuss the basics of the Name Image and Likeness (NIL) and how it can benefit student athletes. We take the time to talk about what NIL is, what the benefits are, as well as what student athletes need to watch out for. We talk about specific examples to include Top 25 class of 2023 guard Reed Sheppard as well as whether high school and prep school athletes can take advantage of this. They can! This episode highlights a new area of the athle...
2022-01-241h 04PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastThe Difference Between Brick and Mortar Prep Schools VS Basketball AcademiesThis is one of the most important topics to clarify in the prep school basketball world. Brick and mortar prep schools are NOT the same as basketball academies. In this episode I discuss the differences between the two options, share my personal experience and horror stories of working with some of these academies, and share what to questions to ask if looking at this option. Connect with Cory:Website | https://www.prepathletics.comInstagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep_athletics/Twitter | https://twitter.com/PREP_AthleticsFacebook | https://www.facebook.com...
2022-01-1016 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastCoaching NBA Lottery Picks + Starting the And1 Shoe Brand feat. Westtown School Coach Seth BergerIn this episode we welcome Westtown School Head Coach Seth Berger. Seth has been the coach there for 12 years and built it into a national powerhouse. He has coached NBA players such as Cam Reddish and Mo Bamba. He currently has the number one player in the class of 2022 and Duke signee Dereck Lively. In this episode we discuss why he got into coaching, how he turned Westtown into a national powerhouse, the mindset and skills that his eventual NBA players possess, and placement during covid. Seth also founded the shoe and apparel company And1. We talk about his meetin...
2021-12-291h 08PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastCreating a National Powerhouse, Starting Findlay Prep + Coaching Rick Pitino's son feat. Danny HaneyOn this episode we welcome Coach Danny Haney to the podcast. Danny is PREP Athletics Founder Cory Heitz’s high school coach. Danny coached at Lexington Catholic High School and during his time won a state title and got up to #3 in the USA Today National High School Rankings. He beat Oak Hill and Whitney Young that year and talks about how he built the program into a national powerhouse. Danny also talks about coaching Tubby Smith and Rick Pitino’s sons, turning down a 2-time NBA All Star from joining his team, the beauty of Kentucky high school bask...
2021-12-131h 06PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastFormer Nike Executive Talks Kobe, Lebron and Kevin Durant + Placing His Son in a Prep SchoolOn this PREP Athletics Podcast we welcome former Nike executive and prep school parent to the podcast. Archie McEachern completed a post grad year himself at Maine Central Institute before playing and becoming a 2 year captain at Ithaca College. He then worked his way up the corporate ladder at Nike to at one point being in charge of Global Basketball. Archie was in charge of footwear for Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, Kevin Durant and more. He also shares his insight on helping his own son choose the right prep school. This was a great interview! Get behind the scenes...
2021-11-2956 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastTop 5 Most Important Questions to Ask Prep School Basketball CoachesIn this short podcast we go over the most popular article from the PREP Athletics website: The Top 5 Most Important Questions to Ask Prep School Basketball Coaches. Here they are: 1) How much is this going to cost? 2) What is your strategy on getting a player exposure to college coaches? 3) How can you meet a player's academic goals? 4) What is the culture of the school? 5) How will you develop a player's skills? You can read the full article here: https://prepathletics.com/top-5-questions-you-should-ask-prep-school-coaches/ Connect with Cory: Website | https://www.prepathletics...
2021-11-1510 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastFormer NBA Head Strength Coach Who Also Trained Kevin Durant in HS - feat. Coach Blair O'DonovanOn this week’s episode I had the pleasure to interview former NBA strength and conditioning coach, Blair O’Donovan. Blair has worked in the NHL, NFL, NBA, as well as for the Jordan Brand Classic and the McDonalds All American Game. Blair and I coached together at Gonzaga College High School in Washington DC under Gatorade National Coach of the Year, Steve Turner. In this podcast Blair talks about being Kevin Durant’s strength coach in high school, the other future NBA players on the Montrose Christian team, characteristics of an NBA player, the importance of nutrition/sleep, and the e...
2021-11-011h 05PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastThe Beginner's Guide to D3 Basketball feat. D3 Direct's Karl BarkleyOn this episode we welcome Karl Barkley of D3Direct. Karl played at Swarthmore College and now helps educate athletes on everything D3. In this episode we discuss the talent at the D3 level, going pro, the benefits, and talk all about financial aid. This was a very informative episode which is a must listen to those who don’t know much about the D3 option. What You Will Learn:[0:41] Overview of episode[2:17] Information about D3Direct and why it started.[3:05] Karl wishes there was a D3Direct around when he was looking at colleg...
2021-10-1858 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastWalking On D1, Winning a Prep School Championship, Coaching NBA Players + More feat. IMG's Alex PoppOn this episode we welcome Coach Alex Popp of IMG Academy to the podcast. Alex has played D1 and D2, coached at the D1, D3, G-League, Nike EYBL and prep school level and is now working at IMG Academy to make their basketball program one of the best in the world. In this episode we talk about Alex completing a post grad year at Northfield Mount Hermon, being a walk on at a Big Ten school, finding the right fit for college, coaching Top 100/future NBA players, what guards need to do to succeed, the NIL situation, and much...
2021-10-041h 20PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastHow Does the PREP Athletics Process of Finding the Right Fitting Prep School Work?In this mini episode, PREP Athletics Founder, Cory Heitz explains how the PREP Athletics process of finding a right fitting prep school works. This process includes:1) Committing to help a player2) Player has to make their own recruiting website3) Reaching out to the right fitting prep school's coaches on the player's behalf4) Have players/family ready to talk to interested coaches by creating a recruiting notebook w/ important questions to ask5) After players talk to coaches I will talk to them about the characteristics of each school and coach6) If feasible set up...
2021-09-2012 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastNational Championship Winning Prep School Coach Talks Program Building + 7 Footers feat Tom EspinozaTom Espinoza is the head prep boys basketball coach at Putnam Science Academy. Tom won National Prep School Championships in 2018 and 2020. He has coached dozens of D1 players to include NBA player Hamadou Diallo. In this conversation we talk about starting a prep school program from scratch, what its like to coach a Top 100 player, his second team, the importance of the open gym recruiting period, coaching multiple 7 footers and more. What You Will Learn:[1:17] Information about Putnam Science Academy.[3:30] Why did you want to start the program from scratch at Putnam?[7:43] How did Tom...
2021-09-0651 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastTop Level New England Basketball Prep School Located in the Woods of Maine feat Coach Dan HaynesOn this episode we interview Lee Academy’s Head Prep Basketball Coach Dan Haynes. Dan was a multisport athlete in high school and college before getting into coaching. He has been at Lee since 2016 and shares his insights on such topics as the remoteness of Lee Academy, playing in the NEPSAC AAA, his largely international roster, and more. Dan explains his pitch to players on why it’s a good thing to go to a prep school in Northern Maine, plus much more. Enjoy the interview! What You Will Learn:[1:27] Growing up and why Dan chose...
2021-08-231h 01PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastCoaching Basketball at an All Boy's Prep School in Pennsylvania feat. Kiski Coach Damien WilliamsIn this episode we chat with Coach Damien Williams, Head Prep Basketball Coach at The Kiski School. Kiski is located near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Coach Williams discusses recruiting against the New England prep schools, college recruiting, the advantage of prep school open gyms, how to email a college basketball coaching staff and much more. What You Will Learn:[2:58] What made Damien want to become a basketball coach?[5:13] Damien’s pitch for Kiski as a non-New England prep school.[9:30] Information about The Kiski School.[13:45] How Damien builds his team and what he looks for...
2021-08-161h 01PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastZion Williamson + Steph Curry played in the League of This Southern Prep School feat. Roger CoxIn this episode we interview Coach Roger Cox who is the head boy’s basketball coach at the Rabun Gap School. Roger shares why not being in New England is not a disadvantage for his school, the league they play in that has included Zion Williamson and the Curry brothers, the benefits of a multi-cultural school, Rabun Gap’s circus program and more. What You Will Learn;[4:00] Why Roger chose basketball?[4:50] What got Roger into coaching basketball?[10:30] Why go to Rabun Gap?[13:36] Advantage of playing basketball at Rabun Gap vs New Englan...
2021-08-091h 02PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastVeteran Prep School Basketball Coach Kevin Kehoe Shares His WisdomIn this episode we interview the Winchendon School’s Head Boys Basketball Coach, Kevin Kehoe. Kevin has won a NEPSAC prep school title and coach of the year award. In our conversation we discuss the benefits of playing at a prep school, how to choose between colleges that are recruiting you, the single statement that if a guard does it will get them a scholarship, and much more. Kevin is a personality who also discusses the NCAA transfers, the new NIL ruling and raising triplets. What You Will Learn:[1:10] Why Kevin chose basketball?[1:52] How Kevin ended up...
2021-08-0253 minPREP Athletics Basketball Podcast3 Things I Wish I Would Have Done as a High School Basketball PlayerIn this mini episode I discuss the three things I would tell my high school self to do if I could go back into a time machine. While this is not realistic, current high school players and coaches might get some insight into the benefits of these suggestions. Here they are:1) Meditate for 10 minutes a day2) Incorporate Ice Baths/Sauna (Laird Hamilton + Wim Hof)3) Be present and enjoy the high school experience versus stressing about college Connect with Cory:Website | https://www.prepathletics.comInstagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep_at...
2021-07-2607 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastThe Beginner's Guide to D2 Basketball feat. Regis University Coach Brady BergesonBrady Bergeson is the head coach of Regis University in Denver, Colorado. He played at D3 Chapman University before coaching D1 at Sacramento State. He then became head coach at D2 Western Oregon before becoming the head coach at Regis in 2015. In this episode Brady will tell us about the benefits of playing at the D2 level, how scholarships work at all levels, the differences between each, and more. What You Will Learn:[1:25] Why Brady chose basketball?[2:47] Coaching high school basketball in Tustin CA?[5:00] What are the differences between D1, D2 and D3?
2021-07-1951 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastPrep School Coach Who has Worked for the Pacers, D2, D1 + Coached an NBA Player - feat Mike MannixWilbraham and Monson Head Boys Basketball Coach, Mike Mannix has coached at the D2, D3 and NBA levels. He has been at Wilbraham and Monson since 2009. In this episode Mike talks about working for the Indiana Pacers as a video scout, being the director of basketball ops at Drexel, why the NEPSAC AA prep school league is so special, coaching current NBA player Wenyen Gabriel, and much more. What You Will Learn:[1:15] Why Mike chose basketball?[4:36] How did he become a video scout for the Indiana Pacers?[7:30] What did you take away from...
2021-06-3051 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastFormer D1 Assistant + IMG Coach, John Mahoney, Discusses the World of Basketball Academies John Mahoney is a former D1 assistant coach at programs such as West Virginia University and Michigan. After coaching in college he took over the national post grad team at IMG Academy. Recently John started 212º Sports Academy. In this episode John talks about knowing what college coaches are looking for and how to develop his players so they will be attractive to coaches at the next level. Now as a founder of his own academy, he is taking all he learned and applying it to his program. We dig into the world of basketball academies and their advantages over a tradi...
2021-06-2156 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastESPN National High School Basketball Scout Adam FinkelsteinAdam Finkelstein is the founder of the New England Recruiting Report as well as a national high school scout for ESPN. Adam has experience coaching at the D3 (Western Connecticut State), D1 (University of Hartford), and prep school (Choate Rosemary Hall) levels. In 2012 I reached out with questions to Adam about the prep school world and he was kind enough to take the time to lead me in the right direction. In this episode Adam talks about scouting, going where the players are, his role with ESPN, and much more. What You Will Learn:[2:00] Main...
2021-06-1541 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastDiscover the Recruiting Secrets of a Prep School Coach Who Has Coached 19 Eventual NBA PlayersCoach Raphael Chillious has coached at numerous programs during his tenure. He played collegiately at Lafayette before coaching at West Nottingham, then onto South Kent. After sending multiple players to the NBA and D1, he took his talents to the University of Washington. He has also coached at UCONN, Villanova, and East Carolina before heading back to the helm at the South Kent School. During his career Coach Chillious has coached 19 players who have played in the NBA. In this podcast he talks about how to be a good teammate, his secret to recruiting future pros, how to be a su...
2021-06-0757 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastGatorade National High School Coach of the Year - feat Gonzaga College HS Coach Steve TurnerCoach Turner has been the head coach at Gonzaga College High School in downtown Washington, DC since 2004. Coach Turner was honored with the 2017 Gatorade National Coach of the Year Award. He has coached players who have played at Duke, UNC, Syracuse, Notre Dame, Harvard, Michigan, Cornell, Brown, Miami, and many more programs at all levels. I was an assistant on Coach Turner’s staff for two years and during those years had the privilege to coach eventual NCAA Tournament Legend, Villanova’s Kris Jenkins. In this episode Coach Turner discusses coaching in the best high school basketball conference in Amer...
2021-06-011h 19PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastCoaching Future NBA Players, Evolving During Covid, and Being a Part of the South Sudan National TeamJoe Mantegna is the head coach at Blair Academy where he has been since 1999. Coach Mantegna has coached five NBA players and works with USA Basketball and the South Sudan National Team. In this podcast we discuss his background, the characteristics that his eventual NBA players shared, changes he would make to the NCAA, and hearing from the actor also named Joe Mantegna. What You Will Learn:[1:29] Why Coach Mantegna chose basketball.[2:25] Was Blair Academy as nationally known back in the day as it is now?[3:13] How did he get Luol Deng and Charlie Vil...
2021-05-2445 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastPrep School Coach Who Completed a Post Grad Year, Played D1, + Coached D3 + D1 - Feat Ben FarmerCoach Ben Farmer is the head coach at the Williston Northampton School. Coach Farmer is a former D1 player, as well as an assistant at Wesleyan and the University of Hartford. He completed a post grad year at St Thomas More for Coach Jere Quinn, before playing for Marist. His older brother Jeff also played D1 basketball. In this episode he will discuss his background, how both he and his brother made it to D1, the benefits of working in a prep school’s admission office and more. What You Will Learn:[1:13] Discussion of why Hartford is going...
2021-05-1849 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastMy Personal Experience Transferring High Schools and How it Helped Me Go D1Cory recorded this mini episode based on all the transfers that are happening at the college, prep school, high school and AAU levels. In this mini episode Cory tells his personal story of transferring high schools in the early 1990s. It was not as common at the time but this move changed Cory's basketball trajectory and without it he would not have played in a D1 program. Check out his story and why he doesn't begrudge transferring. Connect with Cory:Website | https://www.prepathletics.comInstagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep_athletics/Twitter | https://twit...
2021-05-1410 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastAAU 101: All You Need to Know About This World From 3 AAU ExpertsThis episode is a recording of a special Zoom roundtable PREP Athletics held w/ three AAU experts. We discuss how to pick the right team, if tournaments matter, and do you need to play AAU to play in college, plus much more. This was very informative and a must listen for families trying to navigate this sometimes shady part of the youth basketball world. Dave Taylor is a former D1 player and assistant coach who has run AAU events since the 1980s. He runs his own AAU program in Connecticut called DTX. He is the a...
2021-05-121h 26PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastThe Prep School Program Where 2 Current NBA Head Coaches Played - feat. Coach Jamie Sullivan Coach Sullivan grew up around Worcester Academy and has been with the school since 1998. As head coach since 2011, he has sent players to all levels of college basketball. In this episode Coach Sullivan describes not only his basketball program and his search for international players, but the local community and how his players can make an immediate impact. Each year he looks for players with the same passion he has where he can build a relationship not only on the court but off the court. What You Will Learn:[2:05] Overview of tradition and basketball at Worcester Acade...
2021-04-2638 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastBasketball at One of the Most Elite Prep Schools in the World - feat. Coach Jay TiltonIn this episode you will hear from Coach Jay Tilton who is the boy’s varsity basketball coach at Phillips Exeter Academy. Hear exclusive details on:-the benefits of going to a school like Exeter-his experience coaching at the D1 level-his advice for players wanting to play at the collegiate level -thoughts on how Duncan Robinson went from a post grad player to NBA star What You Will Learn:[2:08] Why Coach Tilton chose basketball.[3:26] Coach Tilton’s own experience moving from a public school setting to New Hampton Prep School ...
2021-04-1958 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastHow a Prep School Consultant Can Help Players Find the Best Fit at the Best Price - feat. Chris OverbyeChris Overbye is a senior partner of Hunnewell Education where he is a prep school consultant. Chris has his own experience attending Indian Mountain School and Salisbury School before going to Allegheny College. He has worked in everything in the prep school world from being a teacher, coach, director of admissions, director of development and head of financial aid. He has worked at the Meadowbrook School, Salisbury School, and Lawrence Academy. With over 20 years of experience, Chris knows the ins and outs of the prep school world and in this interview shares valuable information for prospective student athletes.
2021-04-121h 08PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastGetting Vulnerable: My Personal Story of Going to Prep School and Playing in a D1 ProgramWhy should you listen to anything I say about the prep school basketball world? For one, I attended a prep school for a post grad year. This led me to getting an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy where I played on the basketball team. In this episode I share my experience with choosing a prep school, my college recruitment and what I gave up to play in a Division 1 program. Connect with Cory:Website | https://www.prepathletics.comInstagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep_athletics/Twitter | https://twitter.com...
2021-04-0621 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastIs IMG Academy Worth The Price? Find Out Why It Is. - feat. Coach Chad MyersCoach Myers is originally from Roanoke, VA. He grew up in the gym under the watch of his father who was a coach. He is familiar with the post grad year as he went to Hargrave Military Academy before playing at Shepard College. Coach Myers started his coaching career at Hargrave, before becoming a D1 assistant at Radford University. Massanutten Military Academy was his next coaching job before becoming the camp director at Hoop Group Elite. He also was the post grad coach for Elev8 Academy. Coach Myers is currently the head Post Grad Coach at IMG Academy. In th...
2021-03-3034 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastDrop and Give Me 20! Inside a D1 + NBA Producing Military Basketball Prep School - feat. Coach Thomas MessingerMeet Coach Thomas “Tom” Messinger, who is the men’s basketball coach at Hargrave Military Academy in Chatham, VA. In this episode Tom talks about growing up in an athletic family and his journey to working at Hargrave Military Academy. Tom tells us about their military structured program and the benefits of a post grad year. Hargrave has sent 27 players to the NBA in the last 25 years. What You Will Learn:[2.13] Coach Messinger’s background and why he decided to play basketball.[3.49] Coach talks about his own experience doing a post grad year and how...
2021-03-2433 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastThe Beginner's Guide to Junior College Basketball - feat. JUCO Advocate's Brandon GobleMeet Brandon Goble, the CEO of JUCO Advocate and junior college basketball scout. JUCO Advocate, helps players gain exposure to junior colleges and their coaches. Listen in to learn the benefits of playing at a junior college and when it makes sense to go this route over a prep school. You will also learn the importance of knowing your strengths and weaknesses as a player.What You Will Learn:[1:00] Brandon narrates how he fell in love with the junior college process and wanting to help kids tell their own stories.[3:06] Ho...
2021-03-1658 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastParents, Let the Coaches Coach - feat. Coach Mike HartMeet Coach Mike Hart, the athletic director and basketball coach at St. Andrew's School outside Providence, Rhode Island. He’s been at St. Andrew's since 1994 and has been named New England Prep School Coach of the Year 6 times. In this episode, he talks about St. Andrews School, the under-the-radar kid they’re focused on, and the diverse environment they provide for basketball players. He explains the importance of trust between college and prep school coaches which enables successful college recruiting. Listen in to learn the importance of parents allowing coaches to coach their children and other...
2021-03-0857 minPREP Athletics Basketball Podcast"If I Didn't Play at a Prep School, I Would Not Have Played in the NBA" feat Brad MillerWelcome to the show NBA veteran, Brad Miller. He attended a prep school in Maine for his senior year of high school before playing for 4 years at Purdue University. He later played 14 years in the NBA to include two times in the All-Star game. In this episode, Brad recalls career moments from the very beginning of high school to the height of his NBA career. He explains why not getting drafted into the NBA worked in his favor and other events that shifted his career to become an NBA player. Listen in to learn how pre...
2021-03-0237 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastThe Virtues of Being a Young Prep School Head Coach - feat Coach Andrew GaleMeet Andrew Gale, the head coach of New Hampton School in New Hampshire. He worked at Vermont as a lead student manager and assistant coach for 4 years, before joining New Hampton in 2016 as an assistant coach and then head coach. In this episode, he talks about the New Hampton school, which is focused on developing kids into the top 100 players even though they do not always recruit top players. He explains how COVID-19 is impacting NCAA basketball recruiting this year and how they’re navigating it to ensure their players make the right choices.Listen in...
2021-02-2637 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastThe Smartest High School Basketball Team in the Country? Just Look at any Recent Ivy League Roster - feat Coach John CarrollMeet Coach John Carroll, the Head Coach for the Boys' Basketball team at Northfield Mount Hermon School in Massachusetts. He was a NMH student-athlete before joining them as the head basketball coach in 2001, making this his 20th year with NMH. In this episode, he describes Northfield Mount Hermon as a prep school where kids achieve highly in basketball and academics, with many making it to Ivy League basketball. He talks about the success of the 2 teams model he adopted in 2020 and why he plans on keeping it going forth. Listen in to learn why he thinks “Go where you ar...
2021-02-1551 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastHow a Post Grad Year Prepares You For Life, Coaching Andre Drummond, + more - feat. Coach Jere QuinnMeet Coach Jere Quinn, the prep school basketball coach for the NEPSAC AAA St Thomas More team in Oakdale ,Connecticut. He’s been coaching for 43 years since he was age 22. He’s coached hundreds of Division I college basketball players, with many of them going pro. In this episode, he talks about his experience at St Thomas More preparing kids for college basketball recruiting and life in general. He explains the creative ways they’re navigating to help kids place in good teams during the pandemic. Learn about the qualities of kids who fit in a prep s...
2021-02-1247 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastWhat do Jim Boeheim, Dwayne Wade + Jamal Mashburn Share in Common? They Sent Their Sons to Brewster Academy - feat. Coach Jason SmithMeet Coach Jason Smith, the head coach at Brewster Academy in New Hampshire. He’s been a coach for over 20 years and started his coaching career at the young age of 19. In this episode, he talks about his experience at Brewster Academy, which is a Basketball Prep School that’s more concerned with the potential of kids rather than having a ‘typical’ kid. We discuss what really makes a future NBA star different from the others and whether they are born or made.Listen in to learn what has changed in Prep School Basketball over the last...
2021-02-0238 min
PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastThe Prep School Coach Who Got Bobby Knight to Send His Son to His Program feat. Coach Whit LesurePREP Athletics is proud to have New England Basketball Hall of Fame Coach Whit Lesure on the podcast. Whit is the Bridgton Academy head basketball coach and shares his life experiences and advice on the prep school basketball scene. [0:00]- Intro[0:44]- Whit Lesure Intro[0:56]- Whit Lesure background[1:40]- Playing days at Hobart[2:10]- Life after Hobart[2:52]: Coaching job at New Hampton[4:09]- Phone call with Coach Knight[6:44]- University of New Hampshire coaching job[9:18]- Fired from New Hampshire goes on to CC and then Bridgton[10:20]- Big...
2021-01-1349 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastHow Much Does Prep School Cost + Are There Basketball Scholarships?Are there scholarships for basketball players at prep schools? It depends. Listen to this mini podcast to learn more information about merit versus need based aid, and more. Connect with Cory:Website | https://www.prepathletics.comInstagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep_athletics/Twitter | https://twitter.com/PREP_AthleticsFacebook | https://www.facebook.com/PrepAthleticsEmail | coryheitz@gmail.comPhone | 859-317-1166Subscribe to the PREP Athletics Podcast: iTunes | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prep-athletics-podcast/id1546265809?uo=4Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show...
2021-01-1312 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastFormer UK Basketball Player Tom Heitz Guarded 2 NBA Lottery Picks Every Day in Practice for 5 YearsPREP Athletics is proud to have former UK Wildcat basketball player Tom Heitz on the podcast. Tom played at UK from 1979-1984. He backed up two lottery picks in Sam Bowie and Melvin Turpin. Tom was on the UK 1984 Final Four team that lost to Patrick Ewing and Georgetown. He was drafted in later rounds by the Indiana Pacers. Tom also happens to be my uncle! On this podcast he discusses being on the same recruiting trip to UK as Ralph Sampson, getting kneed in the groin while taking a charge on Charles Barkley on national tv, and being runner...
2021-01-0448 minPREP Athletics Basketball PodcastHow Marcellus Barksdale Went from Lexington, Ky to a D1 Program + Inspired This Podcast!PREP Athletics is proud to have the Kentucky Basketball Commission's Marcellus Barksdale on the podcast for our first, ever interview. I was on the KBC Podcast this summer with Marcellus where he gave me the idea and helped in the formation of the PREP Athletics podcast. Marcellus shares insights about his playing high school playing days at Tates Creek High School in Lexington Kentucky, getting recruited, playing D1 at IUPUI, and advice for kids and parents in the youth basketball world today. How to connect with Marcellus: Twitter l https://twitter.com/MXBarksdale Instagram l http...
2020-12-291h 01PREP Athletics Basketball PodcastWelcome to the PREP Athletics Podcast: Credentials (Intro)Welcome to the first PREP Athletics podcast. My name is Cory Heitz and I am the founder of PREP Athletics. In this intro episode, I give a short overview of me and my family's basketball background. I also include the benefits of attending a prep school for basketball. What you will learn:[0:00] My goal of playing Division 1 and the five members of my family who played at this level.[1:58] I chose the United States Air Force Academy Prep School for my post grad year. My first cousin Brad Miller spent his senior year at a prep...
2020-12-2313 min