Introduction

The AAU season has wrapped up, school is back in full swing, and the high school basketball season is only a few short weeks away. While November might feel far off, September is actually one of the most important months for athletes. It’s the “secret month” that separates hoopers who show up ready to dominate from those still trying to catch up once tryouts start.

For players, this is the time to sharpen—not scramble. For parents, it’s the time to help your athlete establish routines that set them up for both academic and athletic success. Here’s a breakdown of the four key areas every athlete should focus on during September.

1️⃣ On the Court: Sharpen, Don’t Scramble

The season is around the corner, but this is not the time to overhaul your entire game. Instead, focus on getting consistent, high-quality reps.

Skill Reps Matter: Stick to fundamentals—shooting, ball handling, footwork, and finishing. Work at game speed from game spots.
Pickup With Purpose: Don’t waste time on lazy runs. Compete hard in 3-on-3 or 5-on-5 and treat every possession like it’s the season.
Film Study: Review your AAU games or last season’s film. Identify 2–3 specific areas to improve before November (ex: reducing turnovers, improving free-throw consistency).

Player Takeaway: If it doesn’t translate to in-game performance, it shouldn’t be your focus this month.

Parent Tip: Ask your athlete what their top 2–3 goals for the season are and check in weekly to keep them accountable.

2️⃣ Strength & Recovery: Stay Ready, Stay Healthy

By now, the heavy summer workouts should give way to a more balanced in-season approach. The goal is to be strong, mobile, and fresh going into November.

Strength Maintenance: Hit the weight room 2–3 times per week, focusing on bodyweight strength, core stability, and functional movements.
Injury Prevention: Prioritize mobility, stretching, and activation work for the hips, knees, and shoulders.
Recovery Habits: Sleep 7–9 hours, hydrate daily, and build recovery into your routine (foam rolling, stretching, or yoga).

Player Takeaway: It doesn’t matter how talented you are if you can’t stay on the court. Treat recovery as seriously as training.

Parent Tip: Encourage healthy sleep and nutrition habits—two areas teenagers often overlook.

3️⃣ Academics: Handle Business in the Classroom

Athletes often forget: your first eligibility test happens in the classroom. Coaches recruit students first and hoopers second.

Start Strong: September grades matter. A strong academic start prevents stress later in the year.
Time Management: Balance training and schoolwork by setting a weekly schedule. Avoid procrastination—it only compounds once games begin.
Recruiting Prep: Update highlight reels and transcripts early. If recruiting is on the radar, this is the perfect time to reach out to coaches.

Player Takeaway: Don’t wait until you’re in a grade hole to care about academics. Put in the same effort in the classroom as you do on the court.

Parent Tip: Help your athlete create a calendar that balances assignments, workouts, and rest.

4️⃣ Mindset & Leadership: Set the Tone Early

Champions aren’t just built on talent—they’re built on habits and leadership. September is the time to establish both.

Lead by Example: Show consistency in workouts, school, and effort.
Be Vocal: Push teammates during pickup and conditioning. Coaches notice who sets the standard.
Stay Disciplined: The habits you build now carry into the season—good or bad.

Player Takeaway: Leaders aren’t appointed in November. They’re revealed in September.

Parent Tip: Reinforce positive leadership habits. Recognize effort, consistency, and accountability just as much as scoring or athletic performance.

Conclusion

September isn’t just another month—it’s the month that sets the tone for everything that follows. The skills, habits, and routines you sharpen now will determine how ready you are once tryouts and games arrive.

For players: treat September like your advantage month. For parents: help your athlete balance their commitments and support their growth both on and off the court.

Remember: Championships aren’t won in November—they’re built in September.

Monday, August 25, 2025

September: The Secret Month That Separates Hoopers