In today’s TikTok-driven world, it’s tempting to post everything vertically. After all, short-form content rules social media, right? But if you’re an athlete trying to get recruited, video format can be the difference between getting overlooked or getting noticed.

Let’s get this straight: horizontal video is the industry standard for recruiting. Why? Because coaches and scouts aren’t watching highlights on their phones while scrolling—they’re evaluating talent on laptops, desktops, or tablets, often during team meetings, review sessions, or film breakdowns.

Why Horizontal is King:

1. Coaches Want the Full Picture
A coach isn’t just looking at your shot or speed—they want to see your spacing, decision-making, defensive awareness, and how you move without the ball. That context requires width. Vertical video often cuts out teammates, defenders, and court positioning. That’s a problem.

2. Film Study Happens on Wide Screens
Recruiters watch tape on horizontal screens, not phones. They’re comparing players, drawing notes, and sometimes cutting clips. Your video needs to fit naturally on these devices, not leave black bars on the sides.

3. Professional Editing Tools Favor Horizontal
Platforms like Hudl, BallerTube, and NCSA are optimized for horizontal video editing and upload. Horizontal footage looks better when chopped into reels, and you won’t lose quality resizing or reframing.

So Where Does Vertical Fit In?

Don’t get it twisted—vertical video has its place. It’s gold for grabbing attention online. Instagram Reels, TikToks, and YouTube Shorts are built for vertical swiping. If you're smart, you’ll use vertical clips as trailers that lead coaches and fans to your full horizontal highlight reel.

Think of it like this:

  • Vertical = Exposure

  • Horizontal = Evaluation

Pro Tip from BallerTube

When filming games, use a tripod and shoot in horizontal. Then, extract vertical clips for social. Don’t rely on game footage from mom’s phone in the stands. Quality counts.

Final Takeaway:

If your goal is to impress coaches, earn scholarships, or land a roster spot—horizontal video is your best friend. But if your goal is to go viral, turn heads, or build hype—vertical can help, too.

Use both formats strategically and you'll stand out in every feed and film room.

Want to get featured on BallerTube? Submit your game clips and highlights here and let us help you get recruited the right way.