WIBCA D1 Recruiting Showcase: So, How Did it Go?
The Washington Interscholastic Basketball Coaches Association (WIBCA) put themselves up to the task of running the section 8 Division 1 recruiting event after the NCAA made some rule changes with the recruitment dates and rules. There was a lot of unknown variables, even within the association, as this was totally uncharted territory. Some people were pessimistic about how the event would turn out and even I had some questions about it all, but I can honestly say that the entire event went pretty dang good for its first year!
For those that do not know, the WIBCA is a non-profit organization made up of current and former High School Basketball Coaches from the State of Washington. In a quick summary, the organization strives to provide positive experiences and opportunities for student-athletes through the game of basketball. The board of directors includes Tim Gaebe, Keffrey Fazio, Joe Harris, Tim Kelly, Gary Wusterbarth, Bill Bakamus, Dave Dickson, Bruce Siebol, Pat Fitterer and Nalin Sood. Most of these guys’ work goes unnoticed or better put, under appreciated within our basketball community, but they were truly one of the most passionate and cohesive groups I have ever been around. Contrary to some incorrect beliefs out there, the WIBCA and its board of directors are not in it for the money. They ran the entire event with zero financial help from the NCAA and spent months ensuring that this event was ran smoothly for some of the better players along the west coast.
Around 120 invited players from various states including Nevada, Oregon, Idaho, Alaska, California and more were present for the showcase. Selected high school coaches from Washington and even other states like Arizona handled the coaching of the teams. Over 75 college coaches from different parts of the country lined up along the packed baseline and bleachers to scout potential prospects. The college coaches ranged from Pac-12 Head Coaches all the way down to junior college assistants. The feedback from scouts and participants was mostly positive and there were no glaring mistakes, although there is always room for improvement.
How about next year?
I would not be surprised to see more out of state players and even bigger names participate. The majority of campers were mid major D1 prospects and below, but some high majors were present. I also expect high school coaches to do a much better job of nominating their players for the event. Even in Washington alone, we had multiple solid D1 and D2 prospects that were not participating and they could have benefited from the exposure and experience. Lastly, the WIBCA will surely tighten up some details, review feedback and have an all around better idea of what to expect heading into next year.
I would personally like to thank the WIBCA for the hospitality at the event and most importantly, the players truly benefited from the opportunity to play. Multiple players have already walked away from the showcase with full ride scholarship offers. Overall, the WIBCA’s goal is to give kids positive experiences though high school basketball and that was achieved this weekend.
Be on the lookout for loads of more player coverage throughout the week!