<p>So, each sport will have it’s own rules and regulations as to when and how a coach can contact a player. I know for tennis, my son’s sport, it is Sept. of junior year. Before that, the coach may not write to a prospective player. I really can’t comment on basketball, but for tennis, having a high national ranking is more important than playing on a varsity HS team. You should find out what the rules are and then write to the coach as soon as it is permitted. Each coach will be alloted a certain number of slots for him/her to bring in recruits. There will be a GPA and SAT minimum which recruits have to meet, which is generally lower than what other Harvard students will need to have. The USTA is the place where junior tennis players can go to find out about college admissions. I assume basketball also has such an organization. Good luck!</p>