The Non-Negotiables for Guards Who Dream of Division I
Every high school guard thinks about playing at the next level—but few know the real checklist college coaches use when evaluating talent. It’s not just about flashy highlights or scoring points.
In this episode of the PREP Athletics Podcast, I sat down with Christina Batastini—a Stanford Final Four guard, pro veteran, and current head coach at St. Andrew’s (NEPSAC). Christina laid out the exact traits that separate good high school guards from true Division I recruits.
For parents, players, and coaches navigating the prep school and recruiting world, her insights are a must-hear.
St. Andrew’s girls basketball team building skills and chemistry during summer training sessions.
Basketball IQ: The Foundation of a D1 Guard
Christina: “To be a college guard, you have to understand how to play. Basketball IQ to me is the biggest thing. Great guards make other players better. That has to be your mindset.”
Basketball IQ isn’t just a buzzword. It means knowing when to pass, when to cut, and when to take your shot. Guards who elevate their teammates consistently stand out to recruiters.
Decision-Making: Every Possession Counts
Christina Batastini leading USA Basketball Open Court training at St. Andrew’s, guiding players through 3×3 development alongside SASRI coaches.
Christina: “You’ve got to be able to move the basketball, to space, to understand when to screen, when to cut, when to take your shot. Decision-making is really, really key.”
At the Division I level, guards are expected to operate within structure. Players who can run a system—and resist over-dribbling—prove they’re college-ready.
Defense: Guarding Your Position is Non-Negotiable
Christina: “Your ability to defend your position is huge.”
At every level, defense separates role players from impact players. Coaches want guards who can stay in front of their man, fight through screens, and set the tone on both ends.
Big day for St. Andrew’s basketball as three players sign to play Division I college basketball.
Shot-Making: The Skill That Opens Doors
Christina: “If you want to play at the Division I level, you’ve got to be able to make shots.”
While basketball IQ and defense are foundational, shot-making is the separator. In New England prep basketball—and beyond—college-ready shooters are always in demand.
Modeling the College Game
Week 1 of @USABYouth Open Court focused on 3×3 development @standrewsri. Thanks to the incredible work by @SASRIBoysHoops and @SASRIGirlsHoops coaches!
Christina: “When I put on college basketball, I don’t see a player taking 18 or 19 dribbles before starting the offense. That doesn’t happen.”
The best way to prepare for the next level? Study it. Watching how college guards move the ball, defend, and compete gives high school athletes a blueprint to follow.
Final Takeaway: Build the Complete Guard
The message is simple—IQ, decision-making, defense, and shooting are non-negotiable traits for any guard aiming for Division I.
If you’re a player, start developing these skills today. If you’re a parent, prioritize environments—like prep schools—that teach and demand these traits.
At PREP Athletics, we help families navigate the path toward the right basketball and academic fit. If you want clarity on whether a transfer, post-grad year, or staying put is the best move, reach out—we’ll give you a straight answer.
If you’re looking into prep school, reach out to us at PREP Athletics. We’re here to help you explore your potential and make choices that align with your athletic and academic future. We’ve also got a long list of resources to get you started in the right direction, so check out our latest prep basketball updates on YouTube or our podcast to dive deeper.