wanting to become an nba scout

Question
Hi my name is Matt. I was wondering if you could tell me or give me advice on how to study up on how to think like a scout. Wondering if theyre are any books on that or not. Well hope to hear from you. If you have any suggestions can you email me at [email protected]. Thanks.

Answer
Hi Matt,

I tried sending you an email, but it got returned, so I'm going to answer you here.

I'm really not that familiar on scouting. I do know an NBA Scout, who is also a high school principle. But I never asked him how he got into it.  I think you need to know the ins and outs of whatever sport you would like to scout for. you probably have to have played, then coached, and then begin scouting for college way before the pros.  Remember scouting is not just about finding the best players. There is so much involved, especially for basketball, because other than the "D" league, there really is no Minor Leagues for basketball and for the players to develop. NBA players come right out of college, and some directly out of high school. And although a college player might dominate in college, as a scout, you have to evaluate how they would be at the next level. For instance it's not that difficult to draft a 7 foot player, because they don't have to be the most athletic, or have a super outside shot. If they play some defense, and post up, they might be a great candidate for the NBA. However, the Guard and the small forward positions are much more difficult and probably the most competitive. So you have to be able to evaluate if those players have the potential to play against the NBA's marque players. My advice would be to contact a professional team in your state and I'm sure the front office can point you in the right direction on how to get into scouting.

Best of Luck.