Welcome to AAU Basketball
Your Complete Guide to Understanding AAU Basketball
Register for AAU TryoutsWhat is AAU Basketball?
AAU stands for Amateur Athletic Union, an organization founded in 1888 that governs amateur sports in North America. AAU basketball is competitive travel or club basketball played outside of school teams.
AAU runs spring and summer tournaments across North America, offering higher-level competition, exposure to college scouts, and accelerated player development opportunities that go beyond what traditional school basketball can provide.
Canadian teams participate in AAU by registering with the Amateur Athletic Union and competing in tournaments across North America. This gives Canadian players the unique opportunity to compete against top U.S. teams and American talent.
For Canadian athletes, AAU basketball provides:
- Exposure to U.S. college scouts who attend major AAU tournaments
- High-level competition against elite American programs
- Development opportunities that prepare players for NCAA and professional basketball
- Cross-border experience competing in both Canadian and U.S. circuits
Why is AAU Basketball Important?
Play against top athletes from across North America and raise your game to the next level through high-stakes competition.
College scouts and recruiters attend major AAU events, giving players direct exposure to scholarship opportunities.
More games, more coaching, and year-round training accelerate skill development and basketball IQ.
Develop discipline, teamwork, resilience, and time management skills that translate beyond basketball.
Compete across North America, experience new cities, and build lasting memories with teammates.
Compete for regional, national, and international championships at the highest levels of youth basketball.
AAU Basketball: Your Path to College Recruitment
See how AAU basketball opens doors to college opportunities. Our circuits attract hundreds of college coaches actively scouting talent, with players receiving offers, commitments, and life-changing scholarship opportunities.
College Coaches in Attendance
Major AAU tournaments bring together coaches from top NCAA programs across all divisions. These events are your opportunity to be seen by decision-makers who can change your future.
Player Commitments & Offers
Real results from real players. AAU basketball provides the exposure needed to earn college offers and commitments. These are the moments that change lives.
Tournament Exposure & Game Action
High-level competition on showcase courts with college coaches watching. Every game is an opportunity to demonstrate your skills and compete against elite talent.
Ready to Take Your Game to the Next Level?
Join our AAU program and get the exposure, competition, and coaching you need to achieve your college basketball dreams. Don't let your talent go unnoticed.
Register for AAU Tryouts NowCircuits We're Competing In
- NorthPole Hoops Showcase League
- Toronto Take Over - Nationals Qualifier
- Canadian National Invitational Tournament
- Canada's National Club Championships (Langley, British Columbia)
- Hoop Group
- Made Hoops
- Recruit Look
- Made For Her (Girls circuit)
EXCLUSIVE MADE HOOPS CIRCUIT PROGRAM
Breakthrough competes exclusively on the MADE Hoops circuit, one of the premier NCAA-certified exposure platforms in the United States.
Our AAU teams participate in MADE Hoops LIVE PERIOD events, providing athletes with high-level competition and direct exposure to college coaches across all divisions.
*All U.S. tournaments and live periods listed below are part of the MADE Hoops Circuit.*
AAU Summer Schedule
Grade 6–12 Boys & Girls
Apr 3–4
Mannheim, PA
Apr 10–12
Spooky Nook, PA
May 2–3
York, PA
May 9–10
Baltimore, MD
May 30–31
Philadelphia, PA (Championships)
Notable Players Who Took the AAU Route
NBA Stars
Canadian Basketball Stars
"As your coach, I also competed in AAU basketball during my high school years. The competition I faced and the exposure to college coaches made the experience invaluable. I want to provide the same opportunities that helped me succeed."
— Coach Troy Joseph
What to Expect — Season & Commitment
April–August — Peak spring and summer season with tournaments most weekends
Ages 7–19 — Organized by age divisions (Grade 6–12 for our program)
2–3 practices per week and tournaments most weekends during the season
Year-round competition and exposure vs. school-season play only
Understanding the Costs
- Team registration & administrative fees
- Uniforms and equipment
- Professional coaching
- Tournament entry fees
- Practice facility rentals
(not included in team fees)
- •Travel (hotels, transportation, meals)
- •Border crossing requirements (passports for U.S. events)
Note: Specific costs for our team will be shared during registration.
Frequently Asked Questions
AAU tournaments attract college scouts from across North America. We assist with highlight reels, exposure opportunities, and recruitment guidance, while always emphasizing the importance of academics and character development.
Basketball shoes, athletic clothing, water bottle, and a positive attitude. We'll take care of the rest!
AAU is for players committed to improving their game and competing at a higher level. Passion, effort, and coachability matter most—not just current skill level.
Canadian teams register with the Amateur Athletic Union and compete in tournaments across North America, giving players exposure to both Canadian and U.S. competition.
"Live" refers to specific NCAA-certified evaluation periods when college coaches are permitted to attend tournaments and watch games in person.
Playing during Live periods is critical for exposure, as coaches are actively scouting athletes and identifying potential recruits. Performing well at Live tournaments can significantly increase visibility, open communication with college programs, and create scholarship opportunities.
Ready to Get Started?
We're here to answer any questions and help your child take the next step in their basketball journey.