In the past year, on both this site and a local message board, I have read a number of posts in which a parent touts their child's college choice. For some, JUCO is the way to go; for others, a 4-year program is preferable. IMHO, each type of program has its advantages and disadvantages.
For the benefit of those who are still in high school, I thought it would be helpful to list the pros and cons. I'll start with some off the top of my head in the hope that my small, incomplete list will be supplemented by other posters.
JUCO
Pros - With the exception of California JUCO's, most if not all of tuition and other expenses is oftentimes covered; players usually get to start and generally get more playing time earlier; player can be drafted earlier than if they play for a 4-year program
Cons - At certain schools, education may be inferior; also, emphasis on academic success/progress may be diminished; at certain schools, a huge number of players may show up in the fall (80-100+) and many will be cut; recruiting process has to begin all over again in order to find a 4-year program at which to continue
4-year program
Pros - D1 programs typically have a higher level of play than JUCO's; entering as a freshman gives the coaching staff a chance to develop a player from the get-go; education and emphasis on academic success/progress may be superior; the recruiting process is done; player does not have to transfer to finish his education; roster sizes (for D1's at least) may be smaller than those at JUCO's
Cons - Freshmen especially can be at a disadvantage when competing against upperclassmen who have more experience and are more physically developed; less scholarship money/additional cost for players and parents; typically, no draft potential until end of junior year
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