Parents Are Focused on the Wrong Things (And It’s Costing Their Athlete)

Women’s basketball recruiting is changing fast — from NIL opportunities and the transfer portal to the pressure of exposure, rankings, and finding the right fit.

In this episode of It’s Just Different, Ashley Roberts sits down with Sasha Leverentz-Palmer, founder of Her Elite, former Division I coach, and McDonald’s All-American Committee member, to break down what athletes and parents need to understand about today’s recruiting landscape.

From choosing the right AAU program to navigating exposure opportunities, building relationships with coaches, and developing beyond basketball skill, Sasha shares honest insight on what truly matters in player development. She also offers a behind-the-scenes look at the McDonald’s All-American selection process and why allowing young athletes to struggle, grow, and learn is essential for long-term success.If you're a player, parent, or coach trying to navigate the ever-changing world of women’s basketball, this episode is full of perspective you need to hear.

About the Guest

Sasha Leverentz-Palmer is a respected basketball coach, scout, and player development leader with experience at the Division I and high school levels. She is the founder of Her Elite, a Nike EYBL-certified girls basketball program, and serves on the McDonald’s All-American Committee, helping evaluate and select the nation’s top high school talent.

Sasha is known for her commitment to athlete development, mentorship, and advancing women’s basketball.

Key Takeaways

• Why character and respect still matter deeply in recruiting

• How athletes outside the top rankings can still create opportunities

• What college coaches are actually evaluating beyond talent• Why finding the right fit matters more than joining the biggest name program

• The importance of letting young athletes fail, adapt, and grow through adversity

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