The JUCO market is not just growing—it’s becoming more competitive and of higher quality than ever before. Coach Jenkins points out that JUCO is attracting more academically qualified players than in previous years. “We’re seeing a rise in the number of qualifiers now, guys who have the academic credits and GPA to meet the NCAA requirements,” Coach Jenkins explains. “Some players come to JUCO for just a year to gain more exposure and development, and then they can transfer to a four-year program with three years of eligibility left.”  This influx of academically qualified players has elevated the overall competition within JUCO basketball, providing athletes with the opportunity to showcase their skills at a higher level. “Players who are academically eligible now have the opportunity to showcase their skills and compete at a high level,” Coach Jenkins continues. This rising level of competition benefits everyone involved: players gain exposure to move up to Division I, Division II, or Division III programs, coaches find a wealth of talent to recruit, and fans get to witness a more exciting and competitive brand of basketball. As more academically eligible players enter the JUCO system, the caliber of play continues to rise, making JUCO basketball an even more appealing option for coaches and players aiming to make an impact.

Mady Traore – Frank Phillips

Advice for Players: Embrace the JUCO Opportunity

For players considering their next move—whether they’re high school or international prospects, Division I transfers, or seeking a second chance—both Coach Jenkins and Mady Traore offer valuable advice: don’t be afraid to embrace the JUCO route. Coach Jenkins emphasizes the importance of playing through mistakes: “Let your guys play through mistakes in Jamborees and practice. Let them prove what they can do. JUCO is the time to really test yourself and figure out what you’re capable of.” For Mady, the key takeaway is confidence: “If you’re a player in a similar situation to mine, don’t be afraid to go down to JUCO. Find a good coach who believes in you. A lot of people were saying, ‘Mady is going to JUCO, he’s not doing well.’ But now, those same people are saying, ‘Wow, Mady is doing great.’”

JUCO’s Bright Future in the Transfer Portal Era

With the continued growth of the transfer portal, the JUCO space is more important than ever. For high school players, international prospects, transfers, and Division I hopefuls, JUCO offers a unique opportunity to develop, play through mistakes, gain valuable exposure, and ultimately get recruited back into top-level programs. With qualified players, high competition, and a supportive environment, JUCO is no longer seen as a fallback, but rather a launchpad for future success.

Hunter Jenkins – Head Coach – Frank Phillips

As Coach Jenkins so aptly put it, “JUCO is not a step down, it’s a step to the side. You come here, get your playing time, get your exposure, and get back to the four-year level, or find the right fit for you this time around.” Whether you’re a high school player looking to prove yourself, an international prospect, or a transfer looking for a fresh start, JUCO remains a powerful pathway to success in the world of college basketball.