About the Guest(s):Ashley Roberts is the host of the “It’s Just Different” Podcast and a former junior college basketball player who began her collegiate journey at South Plains Junior College before transferring to the University of Texas.

Now a basketball consultant, speaker, and founder of the Different Community, Ashley uses her platform to educate and empower parents navigating their athlete’s basketball journey — especially those overlooked or misunderstood paths like JUCO.Episode Summary:In this episode, Ashley Roberts sets the record straight about JUCO — and why parents need to stop looking at it as a backup or “less than” option. Sharing her own experience as a JUCO athlete turned D1 graduate, Ashley explains why junior college can be the perfect fit for athletes who need development, more playing time, or a reset.

She breaks down how JUCO events like the Jamboree draw D1 coaches, the difference between going JUCO vs D2, and how ego and misinformation keep parents from seeing JUCO for what it really is — an opportunity.This episode is for any parent who’s wondering if JUCO is “worth it,” any athlete considering their options, and any coach helping a player make the right decision.Key Takeaways:- Junior college provides real opportunities for development, playing time, and visibility- JUCO events like Jamborees are packed with D1 coaches looking for talent- Choosing JUCO doesn’t mean you’ve failed — it can be the smartest move- Many parents reject JUCO out of ego or misinformation- Honest conversations with coaches are essential when mapping out your athlete’s pathJoin the Basketball Parent Community for FREE for 7 days! https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% offhttps://itsjustdifferentapparel.com ⁠