About the Guest(s):

Jordan Jackson and Gigi Banks are top high school basketball recruits out of St. James. Jordan is committed to the University of Maryland, while Gigi is exploring programs that align with her growth and style. Both bring unique insights from national competitions like Hoopfest and share strategies for balancing athletics, academics, and NIL opportunities.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of It's Just Different, Ashley dives into elite high school basketball with Jordan Jackson and Gigi Banks. They discuss Texas vs DMV basketball culture, the benefits of prep school athletics, and navigating the intense schedule and exposure that comes with high-level competition.

The conversation also explores choosing the right college program, factoring in playing style, coaching philosophy, and personal growth opportunities. Jordan talks about her journey to Maryland, while Gigi shares her process for finding the ideal fit. Additionally, they discuss balancing NIL opportunities, recovery strategies, and the importance of family and community support in a young athlete’s development.

Key Takeaways:

- Prep schools offer rigorous schedules and resources that prepare athletes for college-level competition.

- Choosing the right college program requires consideration of fit, coaching style, and growth potential.

- Recovery and physical wellness are critical to maintaining peak performance.

- NIL opportunities must be balanced with authentic passion for the sport.

- Family and community support play a crucial role in an athlete’s journey.

Resources for Parents & PlayersJoin the Basketball Parent Community (FREE 7-day trial):

https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community

Download the FREE Guide to Save Money, Time & Stress:

https://ashleyroberts.kit.com/subscribe

Get the Basketball Parent Toolkit (Your full roadmap):

https://www.ashleynroberts.com/produc...

Shop DIFFERENT merch (Use code “Podcast” for 15% off):https://itsjustdifferentapparel.com