What to Expect at Tryouts
Duration & Format
Tryouts run 90 minutes. Players rotate through skill stations, compete in drills, and participate in scrimmages.
What We Evaluate
Fundamentals, basketball IQ, effort level, coachability, and attitude. We're building complete players and teammates.
What to Bring
Basketball shoes, water bottle, positive attitude. Arrive 15 minutes early to check in and warm up.
Frequently Asked Questions
All skill levels are welcome at tryouts! We evaluate effort and coachability alongside current skill. Many of our best players started with us as beginners. Consider attending a Skills Camp first if you want to build confidence.
Tryouts are completely free. There is no cost to try out for TNE United Express. If selected for a team, full season fees range from $400-$600 depending on age group. We offer payment plans and limited financial assistance for families who qualify.
Families receive notification within 48-72 hours after tryouts. Players who receive a team offer will get an email with enrollment instructions and next steps.
Players should try out for their current grade level. In some cases, advanced players may be evaluated for "play up" opportunities, but this is determined by our coaching staff after initial tryouts.
Prepare Like the Best
Age-appropriate skills and drills to help your player stand out at tryouts. Select your grade level to see what coaches evaluate and how to practice.
What Coaches Evaluate
Ages 6-8
- Basic Motor Skills
Coordination, balance, body control
- Listening & Following Instructions
Coachability at this age is huge
- Enthusiasm & Positive Attitude
Love for the game matters most
- Ball Control Basics
Dribbling with control, catching, throwing
Skills to Practice
Practice dribbling with eyes up, staying low. Circle the ball around waist and legs to build hand-eye coordination.
Throw ball in air and clap before catching. Practice chest passes against a wall or with a partner.
Dribble to the basket and shoot a layup without defense. Focus on proper footwork (right-left-up for right side).
Dribble while playing tag. If tagged, freeze until a teammate dribbles between your legs to free you!
Pro Tip: Keep practice sessions short (5-10 minutes) and fun. At this age, building love for the game is more important than perfect technique.
Not Ready for Tryouts Yet?
Build confidence and skills before tryout day. Our training programs prepare players of all levels for competitive basketball.
TNE Skills Camp
Group sessions focusing on ball handling, shooting, and skill development in a game-like environment. Perfect for building fundamentals and confidence.
- Small group format (8-12 players)
- Age-appropriate skill stations
- Competitive drills & scrimmages
- Saturday mornings, 2-hour sessions
Small Group Training
Personalized coaching in small groups of 4-6 players. More reps, more feedback, accelerated improvement. Ideal for serious players preparing for tryouts.
- 4-6 players per session
- Individualized skill assessment
- Position-specific training available
- Flexible weekday scheduling
"My son was nervous about tryouts, so we signed up for Skills Camp first. By the time tryouts came around, he felt confident and prepared. He made the team and has grown so much as a player and person. TNE is the real deal."
Jennifer M.
Parent · 5th Grade Boys Express
Player retention rate
D1 Alumni
Years developing talent
Ready to Join the Express?
Whether you're ready for tryouts or want to build skills first, we're here to help your player reach their potential.