How JUCO Helped Shape My Journey to Division 1 Basketball

boswellbrb
Mar 19
4 min read

Updated: Apr 21

What I know now about junior colleges (JUCO) is something I wish I had known back in high school. JUCOs can be an incredible stepping stone for student-athletes with dreams of playing at the next level. Whether you’re from the U.S. or an international student, this might spark your interest or at least give you another option for your college sports journey.

My Early Recruiting Journey

I was a bit of a late bloomer in high school and came from a family that wasn’t deeply connected to the sports world. We didn’t know much about the recruiting process or how it worked. Sound familiar? You might be in a similar situation right now—navigating this journey without much guidance.

By my sophomore year, I started playing AAU basketball with an amazing program called Servants in OKC. Shoutout to Coach Major and Coach Curtis for all they do for the youth. That opportunity allowed me to travel and play in major tournaments where, for the first time, I played in front of college coaches and scouts.

After these tournaments, I started receiving letters from schools like Wisconsin, Yale, Bucknell, Cornell, and others. It was surreal. My junior summer, I leveled up and joined OKC Magic, an Adidas-affiliated team playing in even bigger tournaments with top D1 coaches in attendance. Huge thanks to Coach Brian Vann for that opportunity.

Falling Off the Radar

Going into my senior year, though, things changed. I started falling off the radar of those schools that once showed strong interest. There were a few reasons:

I wasn’t registered with the NCAA Clearinghouse.
I didn’t meet academic eligibility requirements.
I failed to follow up with coaches who had reached out.

By graduation, my only option was JUCO. I started visiting schools in Oklahoma offering me scholarships, but deep down, I knew I wanted something different—somewhere outside the state, preferably in Southern California.

How Faith and One Last Opportunity Changed My Path

Although I signed with a JUCO in Oklahoma, I kept praying for a chance in California. Then, a door opened—Coach BV invited me to one last AAU tournament in Los Angeles. I used every penny I’d saved from working to get there.

I played some of the best basketball of my life that weekend. My performance caught the attention of the San Diego Magic organization, and they invited me to play another tournament. There, I met Coach James, who became a lifelong mentor.

After building relationships, Coach James introduced me to Coach Sherman—assistant coach at San Diego City College (SDCC) and head coach of the San Diego Magic. Coach Sherman saw my potential and invited me to visit SDCC. Soon after, Coach Mitch offered me a spot.

Just like that, I was headed to San Diego City College, one of the best JUCO programs in California, playing for an incredible coaching staff and alongside talented teammates.

My JUCO Experience at San Diego City College

My time at SDCC was a blessing. I played for Coach Mitch, Coach Sherman, and Coach Joe—three of the best coaches a player could ask for. The level of competition was insane. Our starting five all went high-major D1. Practices were battles. NBA scouts and D1 coaches often sat courtside.

I didn’t start, but I embraced my role as the 6th man, learning from older players, growing stronger, and gaining confidence. That year, we made it to the Final Four of California JUCOs—winning our conference and breaking records.

Academically, JUCO was perfect for me. Smaller class sizes, supportive teachers, and a fresh start helped me excel. I made a promise to myself that I would never miss class. I stayed disciplined—never missing class unless it was for basketball my college career. I even joined InterVarsity, a Christian student group, which kept me grounded and connected me with lifelong friends.

The Jump to Division 1

After my first year, I felt ready to move on, even though most JUCO players stay two years. Wanting to be closer to my mom, I took a chance and attended a JUCO showcase in Oklahoma.

Thanks to Coach James’ support, I balled out—blocking shots, grabbing rebounds, and showing my all-around game. That showcase led to D1 interest, but it was Houston Baptist University that felt like the right fit.

Coach Key and Coach Cottrell flew me out, showed me around, and offered a full scholarship. I accepted, grateful beyond words.

What I Learned (And What I’d Do Differently)

Looking back, part of me wishes I stayed at SDCC one more year. I would’ve grown more as a player, matured personally, and been better prepared academically for D1 life. But I also believe everything happens for a reason.

One thing I know for sure—there’s no need to rush. JUCO is no longer seen as a “lesser” route. In fact, it can be the smartest move you Now, it doesn't affect your athletic eligibility. You get to develop your game, adjust academically, and prepare for the challenges of playing at the highest levels.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a student-athlete feeling unsure about your journey, know that JUCO might be exactly what you need. It gave me an incredible experience, lifelong friendships, and eventually opened the door to play D1 basketball.

If you have any questions about your options or want help navigating the process, feel free to reach out. At AthleteNexus, we’ve been there, and we’re here to guide you.

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