NCAA, Fit and
Erica McCall
Read the recap of our Instagram live with Stanford WBB Assistant Coach - Erica McCall, as she tells us about her journey and experience with NCAA, being a pro in Europe and WNBA.
Spring approaches...
For most of the world that means the start of something fresh and new. However, in the basketball universe this is the harvest time. The playoffs are the culmination of the season. And the first ones to enter it are the NCAA players.
NCAA stands for The National Collegiate Athletic Association which is the organisation for United States college level sports. Nearly half a million college athletes each year compete in 24 different sports across 3 divisions.
The option to go to study and compete in an American University is also available for internationals. That is the reason we spent a nice evening with a former WNBA and Stanford player Erica McCall discussing everything about basketball in the NCAA system and how it relates to Europeans.
Why NCAA?
Pursuing higher education, getting access to modern facilities, making lifelong friendships and expanding your comfort zone are only few reasons why all of us here on HerTake team chose to go to America.
Erica McCall :
“Have grace and patience. Embrace it!”
Find The Best Fit
If you know what you want, everyone can find their place to succeed.
Division 1 - the highest level of basketball, bigger schools, mostly full athletic scholarships;
Division 2 - more balanced academic and athletic university experience, ~60% receive financial aid;
Division 3 - more focus on the studies, universities often offer academic scholarships;
Community and 2-year colleges - focuses on the development of players, more support for for academic growth, can offer partial financial aid;
“Have a great work ethic. Work hard on and off the court. And never forget the importance of academics. If you do that, you will always have a place in the NCAA.” - our guest Erica is convinced.
Keep in Mind
As international students there are few specific things to know ahead of time. The road to the US can seem scary, but it doesn't have to be. Be prepared!
The best way to get recognized by the US coaches seems to be playing for your youth National Team. But also, send teams your club team highlights and full game videos directly. Start early! Our guest suggests communicating with potential teams from when you are in years 9 and 10 of school.
Ask the right questions and don't get overwhelmed when visiting the schools.
Give yourself enough time to sort out the documents. Take (and potentially retake) the necessary exams, prepare your high school transcripts, and apply for a visa. Remember that these things cost a bit too but there are people to help you navigate everything along the way.