I am pleased to share with you the wisdom of NCAA Division 1 Women’s Basketball Coach of the University of Oregon, Kelly Graves.
Coach Kelly Graves has been at the University of Oregon since 2014. For the second year in a row, the Lady Ducks reached the NCAA Elite Eight. They finished the 2017-2018 season with a 33-5 record and a magical tournament run.
Welcome to Interview #107
Five Features of a D1 Athlete
To play at a major D1 school athletes should have talent and athleticism. They should have a good sense of 
how to play the game. I look for a recruit to display these five features:
- Athleticism
- Skill
- Basketball IQ
- Upside/potential
- Character
When is a D1 Athlete Noticed?
To play D1 athletics you should be noticed by your Freshmen year. But it’s never too late.
Athletes can determine if they’re a D1 athlete by knowing who is already recruiting them. What level of coach is recruiting you?
D1 is not the only option.
The most common mistake prospective student athletes make is reaching for a level that might be beyond them. They should go where they can play and have an impact regardless of level. Too many people get hung up on the level or league.
Being a D1 Athlete takes more than talent.
My advice for the top high school athletes is not to eliminate yourself from playing at the highest level because of grades, work ethic or attitude.
What is the role of the parent?
Parents should advise and listen, not make decisions in the recruiting process. Be there as a sounding board only. Too many parents get too involved and hung up on the where instead of the why.
How should you navigate the recruiting process if you want to become aD1 Athlete?
Engage!!! Own it!!! Stay off social media about it—your recruiting business shouldn’t be out on Main Street for everyone to hear. Be humble.
This year the Oregon Ducks advanced to the Elite Eight before falling to eventual National Champion, Notre Dame. 
Next, check out: Are You D1 or D2 Caliber?
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Thanks,
Bryan
P.S. Come join our Facebook group, The Recruiting Code. This is the place to be for parents and coaches to talk about college recruiting. Come learn from each other, share stories and get information that will help your child become a college athlete.
