Basketball: Club Teams and Tryouts
What is Club Basketball vs. AAU?
If you’ve been searching club basketball teams, you’ve probably seen the terms “Club Basketball” and “AAU” used interchangeably, but they’re not quite the same. Both offer competitive opportunities for players looking to improve their skills, compete against strong opponents, and gain valuable game experience beyond school basketball. However, there are some key differences worth knowing.
Club Basketball typically refers to teams organized by a private program (like RDE Sports) that compete in various local, regional, and sometimes national tournaments. These programs focus on player development, skill training, and creating a consistent team environment with set coaches and rosters.
AAU Basketball refers to teams that are part of the Amateur Athletic Union’s national framework. Many club teams also participate in AAU-sanctioned events, meaning a club program could be “AAU-affiliated” without being run by the AAU itself.
At RDE Sports, we combine the developmental benefits of a top-tier club team with access to competitive AAU events, giving players the best of both worlds.
Why You Should be Playing Club Basketball
One of the biggest benefits of club basketball is development. You’ll face players from different areas, with different playing styles, forcing you to adapt and improve. This kind of competition helps you sharpen your fundamentals and expand your game. For older and more competitive players, these events often attract college coaches and scouts, providing valuable exposure that could open doors at the next level.
Club Basketball Team Expectations with RDE Sports
At RDE Sports, we host club basketball teams through the organization The BUREAU Basketball. These are developmental club teams 2nd-12th grade, offering an opportunity for all age groups. Our club programming offers total player development, with practices including Sports Performance Training (speed, agility strength, etc), as well as time on the courts for basketball development. This ensures our athletes are improving in all areas of their athleticism, which helps tremendously for their production and competition on the basketball court. We host teams year round and teams participate in 4 seasons throughout the year (Fall, Winter, Summer and Spring). So, there are always opportunities to play with us!
Club Basketball Schedule and Tryouts
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I learn more about the coaches for the club or AAU teams?
We have a number of coaches that assist with our club teams! Take a look at our coaches page to learn more about them and their professional experience.
What is the registration process and how do I get started?
We host tryouts for each of our 4 seasons. Be on the lookout for announcements and schedules… Middle of the season? You can still join. Contact us to get your athlete in for an evaluation and move forward with getting them on a team!
Who can play on the club or AAU teams?
Currently, we only have male club teams, although we host teams for grades 2 – 12! If you have a female athlete interested in playing with us, we do have an ongoing Middle School Girls 3v3 League. Contact us to learn more about it.
How many players are on each team?
We typically shoot for 10 players per team, and they will participate in 5v5 play. On occasion, we will have smaller teams who will then compete in 3v3 leagues/games.
What is the time commitment for club or AAU teams?
Our teams typically practice two times per week, with each practice being about two and a half hours long. Games are held on the weekends.
What are the typical costs associated with playing on a club or AAU team?
There are a couple costs associated with the club teams. This usually includes a registration fee (~$450), training membership ($49/week), uniform fee ($120), and varying league/tournament costs ($100-200/season).
How does gear and uniforms work? Are they provided by the team?
You will need to purchase a uniform kit, which includes a jersey, shorts and team backpack. Upon registration, we will confirm with you the size your athlete needs, and we’ll get them ordered for the season.