Prep School Basketball Recruiting: What Families Must Know
For families considering prep school, one of the most common questions is whether the classification of a program — AA, A, or B — actually matters. The reality is that classification can have a huge impact on visibility with college coaches, as well as the development pathway for a player.
We touched on this topic when I sat down with Coach Herer, who has coached and placed players in programs across different NEPSAC levels. His perspective cuts through the noise and gives parents, players, and coaches the truth about how class systems really affect recruiting outcomes.
The Boston CATS prep basketball program showcases its roster of players and coaches, building exposure and development opportunities.
Understanding NEPSAC Classifications
Cory: “A lot of families get caught up in A versus AA versus B. From your perspective, how much does that label matter?”
Coach Herer: “If you’re in AA, you’re automatically going to see more college coaches in the gym. They recruit those gyms heavily. If you’re in A, you might still have talent, but the exposure isn’t the same. And in B, it can be even tougher — you have to go the extra mile for visibility.”
The Visibility Gap: Why Classification Matters
A Boston CATS prep basketball guard attacks off the dribble in a high-level prep school matchup, showcasing athleticism, skill, and recruiting potential.
Cory: “So for a parent or player trying to decide, is that visibility gap real?”
Coach Herer: “It’s absolutely real. AA schools are like magnets — every big East Coast college coach will step into those gyms at some point. A schools can still produce high-level players, but they don’t get the same constant stream of recruiters walking through the door. And B schools? You’re talking about maybe one or two looks unless you’re really dominating. The label makes a difference.”
A Boston CATS prep basketball player challenges an opponent’s dunk attempt during a competitive prep school matchup, showcasing athleticism, defense, and recruiting-level play.
Beyond Basketball: The Academic Factor
Cory: “But there’s also the academic side, right? Sometimes a B school might have incredible academics.”
Coach Herer: “Exactly. You can’t just chase the league label. Some B schools offer better academics than any AA school. And if you’re serious about both — college basketball and academics — you need to find the right balance. That’s where families make mistakes, falling in love with a Roman numeral instead of the whole package.”
The Takeaway for Families
A Boston CATS prep basketball forward elevates for a clean jump shot over a defender during a competitive prep school matchup, showcasing skill and next-level potential.
Cory: “So if you’re advising a family, what’s the message?”
Coach Herer: “Don’t fall in love with the letters. Exposure is higher at AA, but the right school is about coaching fit, playing time, and academics. That’s what gets kids recruited in the end.”
Final Thoughts from Cory
Coach Herer’s perspective is spot on. NEPSAC classifications matter for exposure — there’s no denying that. But what matters more is finding the school where your child will grow both on and off the court. Too many families focus on the label instead of the full picture.
If you’re weighing AA vs. A vs. B, reach out to me at PREP Athletics. I’ll help you cut through the noise and find the right fit for your child’s basketball and academic journey.
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.