Episode 23 - "The Legacy of the Dakota Schoolers and the State of AAU Basketball in SoDak Today"

Before South Dakota players were earning national attention, before spring and summer basketball became a statewide phenomenon, there was the Dakota Schoolers.In Episode 23, Nate and Todd sit down with Dakota Schoolers founder Paul Seville for a fascinating look back at the origins of one of the most influential AAU basketball programs in South Dakota history. From humble beginnings in Aberdeen to competing on the national stage, Paul shares the challenges, sacrifices, and vision that helped transform opportunities for generations of South Dakota athletes.The conversation explores the rise of AAU basketball in the state, the relationships that opened doors with college recruiters, memorable stories from the Schoolers' early years, and the players who helped put South Dakota basketball on the map, including the emergence of future NBA star Mike Miller.But this episode isn't just about the past. Paul also offers a candid assessment of today's club basketball landscape, discussing what has changed, what has been lost, what still works, and what young players, parents, and coaches should focus on moving forward.Whether you're a longtime South Dakota hoops fan, a former AAU player, or someone interested in the evolution of youth basketball, this is a conversation that connects the game's past, present, and future.The State of Hoops Podcast – Season 1 Sponsors include the following companies and organizations: South Dakota High School Basketball Hall of Fame • Tiefenthaler Homes with Hegg Real Estate • Park Bench Apparel • Charles Schwab – Sioux Falls (Lonnie Struckman & Zach Hanson, Financial Consultants) • and Insight. Basketball fans across South Dakota are encouraged to reach out and engage with the podcast via e-mail at [email protected] and on the following social media platforms:*YouTube: @StateofHoopsPodcast *Instagram: @state_of_hoops_podcast *X: @StateofHoopsPod