How to Make a Basketball Highlight Video That Gets You Noticed

There’s no doubt a well-made basketball highlight video is a critical tool in the college basketball recruiting process. A great video can grab a coach’s attention and open doors. A poorly edited or overly long one? It might get skipped without a second glance.

At Pro Skills Basketball, we’ve talked to dozens of college coaches who all say the same thing: they’re busy, and they don’t have time for fluff. So if you’re a high school basketball player (or parent of one) looking to get recruited, these tips will help you create a standout basketball recruiting video.

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1. Keep Your Highlight Video Short and Sharp

Coaches juggle tons of responsibilities — practices, games, recruiting calls, travel, etc. Your highlight video should be no longer than 3 to 3.5 minutes. That means cutting unnecessary clips like free throws or warmups. Only include impactful plays that showcase your top basketball skills.

⚡ Pro Tip: Prioritize high-energy clips that immediately catch attention.

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2. Add a Full Game After the Highlights

Once a coach is interested, they’ll want to see the full picture. Add a complete, unedited game right after your highlight reel. This shows how you play in real time: your decision-making, communication, hustle, and impact on both ends of the floor.

Coaches look for more than stats — they want to see how you handle pressure, interact with teammates, and make in-game adjustments.

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3. Skip the Music, Graphics, and Flash

This is not a mixtape for social media. It’s a recruiting tool. Skip the flashy music and over-the-top editing. Most coaches will mute the video anyway.

🎯 Avoid circles, arrows, and slow-motion effects — they’re distracting. If a clip needs an arrow to show where you are, it probably doesn’t belong in the reel.

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4. Organize Your Highlights by Strength

Instead of mixing everything randomly, group highlights by your top 2–3 skills. This makes it easier for coaches to quickly identify what you’re best at.

📊 Example breakdown:

• 8–10 clips of shooting (catch-and-shoot, off-the-dribble, etc.)

• 5–8 clips of passing/creating

• 5–8 clips of drives and finishes

If time allows, finish with a few hustle plays or high-IQ defensive moments.

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5. Include All Key Info at the Start

Don’t make coaches dig for your details. Include an intro screen with the following:

• Name

• City & High School

• Graduation Year

• GPA

• Jersey Number & Color

• Height & Position

• Email & Phone Number

• High School Coach’s Contact Info

• Headshot photo (if possible)

This not only saves time but makes you look professional and prepared.

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Final Thoughts

Creating a powerful basketball highlight video takes time and effort — but done right, it can be your ticket to getting recruited. Keep it concise, clear, and focused on what makes you stand out.

🎓 Want more advice on getting recruited to play in college? Check out our blog: How to Play Basketball in College

📩 Contact us at admin@proskillsbasketball.com
📞 Call us at 866-996-3888