One of the most storied programs in America
Both Patrick School programs use a hybrid developmental model blending the philosophies of the NBA, USA Basketball, and European basketball clubs — the TPS Basketball Training Institute.
A basketball curriculum, not just a season
The blended model — the TPS Basketball Training Institute — views the development of a player as a long-term, holistic educational project. Just as a student learns markedly different things in a 7th-grade math class than in a senior course, the TPSBTI has a "basketball curriculum" that progresses through each stage.
And just as advanced math students often take Algebra in 7th grade or Calculus as sophomores, each student-athlete is challenged at their current level and pushed to progress and improve every day of permissible training.
The high school program, an NJSIAA associated member, restricts this model to the summer session and in-season in accord with NJSIAA regulations.
Every dimension of the game
Student-athletes at the TPSBTI train along each relevant performance dimension — on the court, in the weight room, and between the ears.
Individual Offensive Actions +
- Ball handling, dribbling & shooting
- Offensive footwork and ball-screen offense
- Passing; using, setting & reading screens
- Offensive rebounding and post-up offense
Individual Defensive Actions +
- Containing the dribble, defensive slides & closeouts
- Footwork to get through screens
- Positional help defense, jumping to the ball
- Boxing out, helping in the post, double teaming, transition defense
Team Concepts & Actions +
- Spacing, pace, offensive & defensive reads
- Special situations; general offensive & defensive philosophy
- Scouting and understanding scouting reports
- How to maximize performance on road trips
Intangible Mental Skills +
- Basketball IQ development
- Understanding basketball history and its relevance
- Understanding the game and its future directions
- How to watch a current game and learn from it
Performance Enhancement Skills +
- Weight training, conditioning, agility, speed & quickness drills
- Precise stretching for performance and injury prevention
- Performance nutrition & sport psychology
- Being a good teammate; sustaining locker-room and team chemistry
A team for every student
Basketball Academy
The flagship TPSBTI program — long-term player development on a national schedule, guided by a staff that has produced NBA talent.
Varsity & Junior Varsity
NJSIAA-affiliated competition where the development model meets in-season play.
Freshman & Middle School
The earliest stages of the basketball curriculum — fundamentals, habits and love for the game, for boys and girls.
Ready to take part?
Before a student-athlete may take part in our athletic program, parents complete the athletic registration packet — student and emergency medical profile, physician information, and immunization records.
Girls & boys athletics
Athletics at TPS are part of holistic development for every student. Registration covers fall and spring sports options alongside the basketball programs.
Train where pros are made
Apply to The Patrick School, or start abroad through the international Hybrid Pathway for ages 13–15.