There’s a different level of expectation when you walk in as the top seed, and that’s exactly where Link Academy finds itself heading into the Chipotle National Championships. This isn’t just another tournament run; it’s a program stepping into a 10-team field where just about everyone has a case to win it. Coach Chad Myers doesn’t shy away from that. The confidence is there, but it’s grounded in understanding how balanced this field really is. At this level, it’s not about talent alone, it’s about execution, depth, and how a team handles pressure in big moments.

Catch the full episode here with Coach Chad Myers here for the inside look into their program.

What separates Link Academy and why people are paying attention is what happens beyond this tournament. This is a program built on development, and the results are showing up across college basketball. With 24 former players on March Madness rosters and six still playing into the Sweet 16, Link isn’t just sending players to the next level, they’re producing impact players. Names like Elliot Cadeau at Michigan and Terris Reed Jr. at UConn highlight that next step, while others continue building their paths. It highlights a bigger point: players aren’t just passing through Link, they’re being prepared for what comes next.

That approach starts with how the program is built. Coach Myers emphasizes fit over flash when it comes to recruiting, helping players find the right college situation instead of just the biggest name. It’s part of why the roster consistently features high-level talent, including multiple high-major commits and top-tier prospects still making decisions. Add in the structure around the program, training access, daily development, and a proven coaching pipeline, and it becomes clear why Link continues to attract serious talent year after year.

Now, the focus shifts back to the court. With games set to air on ESPN and the potential for a marquee matchup against Paul VI, the stage is there. But for Link Academy, this run is about more than one title. It’s about reinforcing what the program already is a place where players grow, compete, and get ready for the next level. The championship would matter. But the standard has already been set.