USA Basketball Writing Program

USA Basketball, the national governing body in the United States for the sport of basketball, is seeking applicants for the USA Basketball Writing Program. Writers will be asked for a one-year commitment (Feb. 1, 2027-Jan. 31, 2028). The goal of the program is to assist USA Basketball’s editorial and event coverage with written features, event recaps and other stories being shared via USA Basketball’s website and appropriate social media platforms.

Writers should be highly motivated, well organized, knowledgeable about the sport of basketball and possess excellent writing skills and be able to write on deadline. Because many USA Basketball teams compete outside the United States, non-traditional working hours will be requested.

As a member of the USA Basketball Writing Program, you’ll demonstrate exceptional writing skills in one of two tracks:

• Features/profiles: Drafting assigned USA Basketball features on athletes, coaches, alumni, leadership and programs, including men’s, women’s, men’s 3x3, women’s 3x3, grassroots, special events and more.

• Beats: Previewing and recapping assigned USA Basketball competitions and/or USA Basketball events in beats including men’s, women’s, men’s 3x3, women’s 3x3, Youth & Sport Development, USA Basketball Foundation and more.

Additionally, USA Basketball writers will:
• Develop and pitch story ideas and write content that aligns with brand goals.
• Research subject matter and interview stakeholders and experts.
• Tell USA Basketball’s stories in ways that inform and engage its passionate fanbase.
• Engage in professional development opportunities.

Desired Qualifications:
• Strong writing and editing skills.
• Junior, senior or graduate student in journalism, communications or a related field.
• Prior student assistant/intern experience in a college/professional sports information or communications department or writing experience with college newspaper/magazine/yearbook preferred.
• Excellent understanding of AP style required. Successful candidates will be required to familiarize themselves with the USA Basketball Style Guide.

Compensation:
• This is a contract position. A per article rate will be paid monthly, with bonus consideration based on milestones. Rate to commensurate with experience.

Application Procedure:
• Email resume, track preference (profiles or beats), references and three writing/publication samples to USA Basketball Communications (communications@usabasketball.com) with subject line “WRITERS” - or click 'Apply Now' to start your email.
• Successful candidates must pass a USA Basketball background screen and complete Safe Sport training.

Program Timeline:
• Oct. 7, 2026: Applications open
• Oct. 30, 2026: Applications close
• Nov./Dec. 2026: Application review and interview process
• Jan. 2026: Writer orientation
• Feb. 1, 2027-Jan. 31, 2028: Program duration