Champions live here
Our Basketball Program
At SJA Prep, our basketball program stands as a model of excellence, consistently producing national champions and attracting the most promising student athletes from around the globe. We are committed to fostering athletes who are not only strong and independent on the court but also excel in the classroom and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
SJA Prep offers one of the most competitive prep basketball programs in the region. The program is designed to provide student athletes with a high-performance training environment while maintaining strong academic standards.
A Competitive Development Environment
Approximately 90 student athletes train in the program each year, across both men’s and women’s teams. Players train and compete in a structured program that focuses on skill development, team
systems, and competitive game experience. Practices are scheduled throughout the day depending on the team and training block. Some training sessions begin as early as 6:30 AM a few days per week, while others take place during the school day or in the evenings.
Program features include:
Daily basketball training and team practices
Access to three full size FIBA regulation basketball courts and two training courts
Fully equipped strength and conditioning facilities
Competitive schedule averaging approximately 30 games per season
Participation in top regional and national prep basketball competitions and leagues
Exposure & Recruiting
Leagues & Exposure Events
We participate in the following leagues and tournaments
Post-Secondary Coach Connections & Open Gyms
Our experienced coaching staff maintain strong relationships with a wide network of U Sports, NCAA, CCAA, and NJCAA programs, creating meaningful pathways for student-athlete placement beyond playing in the top leagues and tournaments.
To further enhance exposure, we host dedicated open gyms where post-secondary coaches can evaluate talent, connect directly with athletes, and build recruiting relationships - providing our students with valuable visibility and expanded opportunities.
Recruiting Support & Strategy
In today’s competitive prep landscape, SJA takes a development first approach - prioritizing long-term athlete growth, academic achievement, and sustainable success.
Our program is built to support each student-athlete with personalized recruiting guidance, helping them navigate the process and position themselves for the best possible post-secondary outcomes both on and off the court.
Campus Visits & Firsthand Experience
We provide student-athletes with opportunities to visit universities and colleges, giving them a firsthand look at life as a post-secondary athlete.
Through these campus trips, students experience training environments, academic settings, and team culture while also networking with coaches and current players. These experiences help athletes make informed decisions about their future and build valuable connections at the next level.
Day in the Life
Student athletes at St. Jude’s Academy follow a structured schedule that balances academic
development, basketball training, and personal time. Training schedules vary depending on the team and practice block. Players who have a morning practice session will not have practice again that same evening. Students may also continue to use the school’s athletic facilities in the evening when available
Morning
6:15 AM
The school bus picks up students from the residence and brings them to the basketball dome.
6:30 AM – 8:00 AM
Morning team practice
8:15 AM – 8:45 AM
Breakfast is served at the school
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Academic classes begin
Afternoon
12:20 PM - 1:00 PM
Lunch Break
1:20PM - 3:40 PM
Academic classes continue
Evening
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Afternoon and evening team practices are scheduled in two-hour blocks
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Afternoon and evening team practices are scheduled in two-hour blocks
