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What to Do If You Have No College Basketball Offers After High School

A young basketball player in a black jersey stands at a fork in the road—on the left, a classic yellow prep school with white pillars; on the right, a modern gray junior-college gym with a glowing basketball court—symbolizing the choice between a post-grad prep year and JUCO ball.

A young basketball player in a black jersey stands at a fork in the road—on the left, a classic yellow prep school with white pillars; on the right, a modern gray junior-college gym with a glowing basketball court—symbolizing the choice between a post-grad prep year and JUCO ball.

What to Do If You Have No College Basketball Offers After High School

So your senior basketball season has wrapped up, and you’re left with little or no offers to play at the college level. Maybe you had some interest from Division III schools but aren’t excited about the options, or perhaps you didn’t hear from coaches at all.

Now what?

If you’re still passionate about playing basketball in college, don’t panic—many players have been in your shoes. You typically have two realistic paths to continue chasing your dream:

  • Go to a prep school for a post-grad year

  • Attend a junior college (JUCO)

Both options can help you grow as a player and a person, but they each come with pros and cons. At Pro Skills Basketball (PSB), we’ve helped many athletes navigate this exact transition. Here’s what you need to know.

Prep School Basketball

Let’s start with prep school, because that’s the route I personally took—and looking back, it was one of the best decisions of my life.

I had just turned 18 when I graduated high school, stood 6’4″, weighed 175 pounds, and had solid skills but little muscle. I received some offers from D3 programs, but my sights were set on Division I. Through research and some guidance, I discovered the option of doing a post-grad year at a prep school.

My family and I decided that an extra year of maturity—both physically and mentally—could make all the difference. That year gave me a chance to grow stronger, improve my game, and get a feel for life away from home.

I attended Worcester Academy, where I played alongside eight other Division I-bound players, including future NBA talent like Jarrett Jack and Craig Smith. I gained 20 pounds, trained in a competitive environment, and learned valuable life skills—study hall, dorm life, time management—that helped me mature.

Shortly after committing to Worcester, I received my first Division I offer from Davidson College. I went on a visit, committed shortly after, and the rest is history.

Pros of Basketball Prep School

  • Doesn’t use college eligibility – Prep school is a fifth year of high school.

  • Structured environment – A great transition between high school and college.

  • Exposure – Top prep schools draw frequent visits from college coaches.

Cons of Basketball Prep School

  • Cost – Many schools cost as much as a college, $40K–$50K/year.

  • Varied quality – Not all prep schools are equal; do your homework.

At PSB, we strongly encourage players to explore prep options if they’re committed to the grind. It’s also why we offer educational content and mentorship to help families evaluate what schools might be a good fit.

Junior College Basketball (JUCO)

Before I committed to prep school, my dad and I visited a junior college game. Ultimately, it wasn’t the right fit for me personally, but I’ve seen players use JUCO as a fantastic springboard to four-year colleges and even pro careers.

One of our own PSB Charlotte coaches, BJ Spencer, played two years of JUCO in Florida, then transferred to Jacksonville State, where he became the all-time leader in three-pointers before going pro overseas.

JUCO is often a more immediate, affordable option and can be a powerful choice—especially for players who need to improve academics or want to earn playing time quickly.

Pros of Junior College

  • Academic eligibility – A pathway for players who need to qualify academically.

  • Affordability – Costs are generally lower than prep school or four-year colleges.

  • Game speed and strength – JUCO players are older and more physically developed.

Cons of Junior College

  • Eligibility impact – JUCO years count; two years of JUCO means only two years left at a four-year school.

  • Fewer resources – Facilities, travel, and budgets can be limited; JUCO is a grind.

We often tell PSB families: JUCO isn’t glamorous, but for the right player, it’s a great proving ground.

Final Thoughts: Prep School or JUCO?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your decision should be based on your academic standing, budget, basketball goals, and personal readiness. No matter the route, staying committed to growth is key.

At Pro Skills Basketball, our mission is to develop players on and off the court. Whether it’s through competitive teams, training programs, or educational resources, we’re here to help you take the next step in your basketball journey.

If you’re navigating this decision, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’ve guided many players through it, and we’d love to help you too.

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