Travel Soccer in DC, Bethesda, Potomac, Takoma Park

PPA Premier Hoops

A highly competitive travel basketball experience in the DC and Maryland region with a focus on advanced player development. The goal of this program is to provide talented players with a competitive club experience, and to build pathways for players to reach high school, collegiate and professional levels. For an in-depth look at what our Premier Hoops Program offers, check out our program guide.

Why Join PPA?

Year-Round Programming

PPA Premier teams compete and train together year-round, ensuring consistent development and growth. Players participate in a full calendar of team training, competitive play, and skill development, including league games, tournaments, and summer camps.

High Level Coaching

PPA Premier coaches are USA Basketball-certified and trained to develop players at the highest level. Many are former collegiate athletes with extensive coaching experience, dedicated to building players’ skills, basketball IQ, and competitive edge.

Circuit Play & Exposure Tournaments

Premier teams compete nationally in high-level exposure tournaments and elite circuits, facing top travel and club teams across multiple regions. These events provide players with the opportunity to showcase their talent on a bigger stage and gain valuable experience.

Comprehensive Program

Beyond team play, Premier players receive individualized development plans (IDPs), film study sessions, and access to skill training and performance training. Players also have opportunities for international trips to expand their experience on and off the court.

2026/2027 Tryout Schedule

All current and new players must register and attend a tryout for their respective age group. Don't miss this opportunity to showcase your skills and secure your spot on the team!

Age Group	Date	Day	Time	Location
Rising 9th Grade Girls	05/26/2026	Tuesday	7:30 - 9:00 PM	Walt Whitman HS
Rising 9th Grade Boys	05/26/2026	Tuesday	7:30 - 9:00 PM	Walt Whitman HS
Rising 8th Grade Girls	05/27/2026	Wednesday	6:00 - 8:00 PM	Maret School
Rising 8th Grade Boys	05/27/2026	Wednesday	7:30 - 9:00 PM	Walt Whitman HS
Rising 7th Grade Girls	06/04/2026	Thursday	6:00 - 8:00 PM	Walt Whitman HS
Rising 7th Grade Boys	06/04/2026	Thursday	6:00 - 8:00 PM	Walt Whitman HS
Rising 6th Grade Girls	06/03/2026	Wednesday	6:00 - 7:30 PM	Walt Whitman HS
Rising 6th Grade Boys	06/03/2026	Wednesday	7:30 - 9:00 PM	Walt Whitman HS
Rising 5th Grade Girls	06/01/2026	Monday	6:15 - 7:30 PM	GDS Lower Middle School
Rising 5th Grade Boys	06/01/2026	Monday	7:30 - 8:45 PM	GDS Lower Middle School
Rising 4th Grade Girls	06/02/2026	Tuesday	6:30 - 8:30 PM	Wheaton HS
Rising 4th Grade Boys	06/02/2026	Tuesday	6:30 - 8:30 PM	Wheaton HS
Rising 3rd Grade Girls	05/28/2026	Thursday	6:30 - 8:00 PM	Walt Whitman HS
Rising 3rd Grade Boys	05/28/2026	Thursday	6:30 - 8:00 PM	Landon School
Rising 2nd Grade Girls	05/29/2026	Friday	6:00 - 7:15 PM	Silver Creek MS
Rising 2nd Grade Boys	05/29/2026	Friday	6:00 - 7:15 PM	Silver Creek MS

FAQ's

For questions related to tryouts or specific teams, please contact PremierHoops@ppateam.com

Q. What gear is required for Premier Hoops players?
A. All players must purchase a full gear package that includes:

Home and away jerseys
Practice shirts
Warm-up set
Team backpack

Q. How much does the gear package cost?
A. The gear package costs $250–$300, depending on size and optional items.

Q. How often do uniforms change?
A. Premier Hoops operates on a two-year uniform cycle. All players will need new gear in Fall 2025, marking the start of a new cycle.

Q. When and how do I order uniforms?
A. After team placement, families will receive an email with instructions to order their uniforms online. Jerseys typically arrive within 1–2 weeks.

Q. What happens if we order the wrong size?
A. Exchanges can be made according to the gear provider’s return policy. We recommend consulting the sizing guide before ordering.

Q. Can returning players reuse their gear?
A. Yes—if it's still within the current uniform cycle and in good condition.

Q. What if my child loses a piece of gear midseason?
A. Individual items can be reordered through the uniform site. We recommend ordering extra shorts or socks when available.

Q. Can jerseys be customized with names?
A. No. Customization is not permitted in the Premier Hoops program.

Q. What’s included in the Premier team fee?
A. The annual fee includes:

Team practices and coaching
League and tournament entry
Skills sessions and film reviews
Access to PPA events and app
Seasonal IDPs and coach evaluations

Q. Are there additional costs?
A. Yes. Uniforms are not included in registration fees. Certain teams may also opt into additional tournaments or leagues that require supplemental fees.

Q. How do I pay the registration fee?
A. You can choose to pay in full or through a monthly installment plan. All fees are non-refundable. If a player leaves midseason, the remaining balance must be paid before release.

Q. What is the coaching philosophy of PPA’s Premier Hoops Program?
A. PPA’s Premier Hoops program is rooted in long-term player development. Coaches emphasize fundamentals, basketball IQ, and personal growth—on and off the court.

Q. Who coaches the Premier teams?
A. All Premier coaches are USA Basketball Gold Licensed and NFHS Certified, with significant coaching experience.

Q. How is coaching consistency maintained?
A. PPA follows a unified curriculum designed by our technical staff. Coaches work closely with Directors and meet regularly to ensure program-wide consistency in training and philosophy.

Q. How are coaches assigned to teams?
A. Coaches are placed based on their experience and the specific needs of the age group. While consistency is valued, we prioritize the best developmental fit for each team.

Q. What does the weekly schedule look like?
A. Teams typically practice 2–3 times per week and play in tournaments or leagues on weekends. Optional skill sessions and IDPs supplement core team practices.

Q. How is playing time determined?
A. Playing time is based on effort, attitude, attendance, and in-game performance. While we emphasize development, Premier is a competitive program, and playing time may vary.

Q. How do coaches provide feedback?
A. Coaches provide ongoing feedback during practices and games. Additionally, all Premier players receive Individual Development Plans (IDPs) and 1-on-1 evaluations during the season.

Q. What is the parent’s role in the coaching process?
A. Parents are encouraged to be supportive and positive. We ask parents to avoid sideline coaching, support team values, and communicate respectfully with coaches when needed.

Q. What if I have a coaching concern?
A. Please wait 24 hours after a game before reaching out. If necessary, schedule a conversation with the coach. If the concern continues, contact your Age Group Director.

Q. What makes PPA’s coaching model unique?

USA Basketball and NFHS certified staff
Player-centered development with IDPs and film sessions
Exclusive access to circuits and national exposure
Emphasis on mentorship and team culture

Q. What leagues and tournaments does Premier Hoops compete in?
A. Teams may compete in:

MADE Hoops
Zero Gravity (ZGXL)
Puma NXTPRO
Select Events
Shots Up, BGBL, AGame, Premier 1, and others

Q. Do teams travel?
A. Yes. Older and more competitive teams typically travel for 1–5 out-of-town tournaments per year. Travel is coordinated by coaches and families.

Q. Do all teams attend the same events?
A. No. Tournaments and league schedules vary by team based on age, level, and season goals.

Q. Does PPA help players pursue college basketball?
A. Yes. PPA Premier Hoops provides national exposure through college showcase events, as well as access to top grassroots circuits like MADE Hoops and NXTPRO.

Q. What recruiting opportunities are available?
A. High school teams compete in NCAA-certified events during live periods, maximizing exposure. Many PPA athletes use highlight reels, film, and stats to support recruitment.

Q: Are recruiting platforms used?
A: Yes — PPA uses Hudl and Prep Hoops to support player exposure and college recruitment. In addition to platform visibility, we offer personalized guidance, film support, and direct connections with college coaches for players pursuing the next level.

Q. What’s the path from PPA to college basketball?
A. With elite circuit play, advanced coaching, and support from staff, players are well-positioned to pursue high school varsity and collegiate-level basketball.

Age Group & Team Details

2nd - 5th Grade

Green Teams
• League & Tournaments: Competes in top local leagues and higher-level tournaments.
• Practices: 2x per week.
• Games: Weekend league games in fall, winter, and spring seasons.
• Additional Development: Seasonal skills training, optional summer day/evening camps, and access to additional competitive play.

Blue Teams
• League & Tournaments: Competes in local leagues with occasional tournaments.
• Practices: 2x per week.
• Games: Weekend league games in fall, winter, and spring seasons.
• Additional Development: Seasonal skills training and optional camps for continued growth.

6th - 8th Grade

Green Teams
• League & Tournaments: Competes in high-level leagues, top regional tournaments, and is eligible for Puma NXTPRO Circuit.
• Practices: 2x per week.
• Games: Mix of local and regional competition, including select exposure events.
• Additional Development: Bi-weekly skills training in fall/spring, summer evening camps, and access to competitive pathways for high school basketball preparation.

Blue Teams
• League & Tournaments: Plays in competitive local leagues and participates in select tournaments.
• Practices: 2x per week.
• Games: Local league play throughout fall, winter, and spring.
• Additional Development: Bi-weekly skills training in fall/spring.

9th - 11th Grade

Team Levels & Circuits:

National Team: Competes on the MADE Hoops Challenger Circuit, traveling to top-tier events.
Showcase Team: Plays on the Zero Gravity Exposure League Circuit, competing against high-level talent for High Academic players.
Regional Team: Competes in local independent events, with less travel commitment.

Program Structure: