You’ve been playing ball for years, living and breathing the game through middle school and high school. Now you’re starting to think about college and wondering if your skills on the court could earn you a scholarship and set you up with a free education. Getting recruited takes more than raw talent though – you need to understand how college coaches evaluate prospects and what you can do to get their attention.
Whether you want to play for a Division I powerhouse or a small DIII school, a basketball scholarship can help make higher education more affordable. Read on to learn insider tips that can help launch you on the path to becoming a college athlete.
What Are Basketball Scholarships?

If you’re a high school basketball player, you may have dreams of playing in college. A basketball scholarship is an exciting way to achieve that dream while getting your tuition paid for.
Basketball scholarships are offered by colleges and universities to recruit talented players for their school teams. They cover part or all of your educational expenses in exchange for playing on the basketball team.
- The money for these scholarships comes from the school’s athletics budget or donors who want to support student-athletes.
- Scholarships can cover tuition, room and board, books, and more. The amount offered depends on the school and your skills as a player.
- Most basketball scholarships are “partial” scholarships. This means they may cover 25%, 50%, 75% or up to full tuition and expenses. Only elite players receive offers for “full rides.”
When you get a basketball scholarship offer from a college, they will provide you with an official letter detailing the exact amount and duration of the offer. Scholarships are usually renewable each year if you continue to play and meet academic requirements.
The competition is fierce, but basketball scholarships provide phenomenal opportunities if you have the motivation and talent. Stay disciplined, keep practicing hard, and market yourself to coaches to improve your chances of securing one.
Requirements for Getting a Basketball Scholarship
To earn a basketball scholarship, you need to put in the dedication and effort both on and off the court. Here are the key requirements college coaches look for:
- Basketball skills – Coaches want players with strong fundamentals like dribbling, passing, shooting and defense. Develop go-to moves like a killer crossover or reliable mid-range jumper. Refine these skills through regular practice and workouts.
- Athleticism – Speed, vertical leap, endurance and strength are critical. Hit the weight room to build power and prevent injuries. Test and track metrics like your vertical jump over time.
- Game sense – Understand plays and make smart decisions on the court. Study film to analyze offenses and defenses. Have court vision to find the open man. Make adjustments on the fly.
- Competitiveness – Bring relentless effort and intensity each game. Dive for loose balls. Crash the boards every possession. Want the ball in crunch time. Display passion and determination.
- Accolades – Earn individual honors like All-Conference. Get named to all-tournament teams. Garner team accolades like League Champions. Awards draw recruiter attention.
- Academics – Maintain solid grades to meet NCAA requirements for freshman eligibility. Take a rigorous course load. Score well on ACT/SAT tests.
By developing your skills and strengths both on and off the court, you can earn a life-changing basketball scholarship. Stay dedicated to your goals through hard work, perseverance and a competitive spirit.
How to Improve Your Skills and Build Your Resume

To get noticed by college coaches and earn a basketball scholarship, you need to focus on improving your skills both on and off the court. Here are some tips:
- Work on your fundamentals – ball handling, shooting, defense, etc. Master the basics through drills, pickup games, camps, and by practicing on your own. Record yourself to analyze areas to improve.
- Join school and club teams – Get experience playing competitively. Being part of a program shows commitment and allows coaches to evaluate you against tough competition.
- Attend prospect camps – These camps give players exposure by having college coaches watch you play against top talent. They allow you to get on coaches’ radar early.
- Take challenging coursework – Earn good grades in honors/AP classes to show you can handle college academics. Study for standardized tests to get competitive scores.
- Do community service – Giving back looks great on applications and shows maturity. Document volunteer work and causes you care about.
- Make highlight videos – Create mixes of your best plays from games to share with coaches. Show off your athleticism and basketball IQ through passing, defense, rebounding, scoring, etc.
The more well-rounded player you become both on and off the court, the better chance you have of securing one of the few available basketball scholarships. Stay dedicated to putting in the work and getting exposure. Believe in your abilities – you got this!
Finding and Contacting College Coaches
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Finding college coaches and contacting them to express your interest in playing for them is an important step in earning a basketball scholarship.
Here are some key tips for high school players:
- Look up rosters and coaching staff for college teams you may be interested in. Most college athletics websites provide this information. Make a list of schools and point of contact info.
- Attend showcases, camps, and tournaments that college coaches attend. This allows you to display your skills in front of them.
- Have an athletic resume prepared summarizing your high school career – stats, honors, teams, position. This gives coaches your vital info.
- Email or mail coaches introducing yourself. Include your resume and video highlights. Follow up with calls a week later.
- Be proactive and persistent, but also patient and professional with coaches. They are busy but will respond if interested.
- Utilize recruiting services to help match your ability with appropriate college programs interested in you.
Putting yourself directly in front of college coaches is important exposure for players aspiring to compete at the next level. Do your research, prepare your materials, engage coaches actively and respectfully, and maximize opportunities to display your talents.
CAN YOU PLAY COLLEGE BASKETBALL WITHOUT A SCHOLARSHIP?
Yes, you absolutely can play college basketball without an athletic scholarship. While a full ride would be ideal, there are other paths to continuing your basketball career at the next level.
Walk On
- The most common option is to “walk on” to the team. This means trying out without any guarantee of making the roster or receiving financial help.
- Coaches may award partial scholarships to walk-ons who prove themselves as valuable contributors.
- Playing time and scholarships may come after your first year once coaches see your abilities.
Academic Scholarships
- Apply for academic scholarships through the college admissions office based on your grades, test scores, essays, etc. These help pay for tuition like any other student.
- Contact the basketball coach about opportunities to then try out and potentially join the team as a non-athletic scholarship player.
Financial Aid
- Explore financial assistance through FAFSA and loans to help cover college costs if needed after any academic scholarships.
- Reach out to the basketball coach about walking on while funding college through these traditional means.
The competition may be intense, but if basketball is your passion, keep working hard and don’t give up on finding a roster spot. Coaches mainly want players who consistently give 100% effort. Let your hustle and heart fuel your college basketball dreams.
HOW MANY SCHOLARSHIPS ARE AVAILABLE FOR MEN’S D1 BASKETBALL?

There are approximately 13 athletic scholarships available for Men’s Basketball at the D1 level. However, coaches rarely offer all 13 scholarships. On average, D1 programs have 10-11 players on scholarship.
- The NCAA limits Division 1 men’s basketball programs to 13 full scholarships.
- These scholarships cover tuition, fees, room, board and course-related books.
- Coaches can divide up the 13 scholarships to offer partial awards. For example, one player may get a full ride while another receives 50% tuition coverage.
- Over 350 D1 schools field a men’s basketball team. With 13 scholarships each, that’s about 4,550 D1 roster spots.
- Competition is fierce, with often 100+ players competing for each open scholarship spot on a D1 team.
Many other players make D1 rosters without a scholarship and opportunities open up each year. Seniors graduating open up scholarship spots. Some players also leave programs via transfer each offseason.
The key is to get on a D1 coach’s recruiting radar. Attend their camps and showcases. Have a skills video. Fill out player profiles. If you can prove you’re good enough to help their program, you’ll get a close look. With some stellar play at the high school level plus exposure to college coaches, earning one of those coveted D1 scholarships is possible with hard work.
HOW MANY DIVISION 2 MEN’S BASKETBALL SCHOLARSHIPS ARE THERE?
When it comes to Division 2 basketball scholarships, there is more opportunity than you might think.
- Division 2 programs are allowed to provide up to 10 full scholarships for their men’s basketball teams.
- These scholarships are often divided up to help fund a larger roster of players.
- So while there may only be 10 full rides available, many more players will likely receive partial athletic scholarships.
- The way these partial scholarships are divided up depends on the coach and program. But most teams will carry at least 14 players.
- So on a 14 player roster, possibly 6-8 players could be on full scholarship, with the rest on partials.
- The players who contribute the most on the court will typically get the most scholarship money.
- But coaches also want to attract talent by offering scholarships to promising recruits.
The key is to get on the coaches’ radar by having good game film and stats. Reach out to programs you’re interested in and keep working hard to improve.
There is ample scholarship money available at the D2 level if you have the talent and put in the effort. Playing college basketball is very achievable with the right preparation.
WHAT ARE THE BEST COLLEGES FOR BASKETBALL SCHOLARSHIPS?
When looking for basketball scholarships, these schools stand out as top options:
- Many of the colleges in Division 1 of the NCAA offer strong basketball programs with scholarship opportunities, such as the Pac-12, Big East, and ACC.
- Kentucky and Duke are perennial powerhouses – they consistently rank among the top 25 teams nationally and produce plenty of NBA draft picks. However, the competition for roster spots is fierce.
- UCLA, North Carolina, Kansas, Indiana, and Michigan State also have elite programs with great coaches and resources to develop players. They balance both winning and academics.
- Mid-major Division 1 programs like Gonzaga, Wichita State, Xavier, and Butler punch above their weight class and make deep runs in March Madness. You may get more early playing time in a key role at these schools.
- For female players, UConn, Notre Dame, Baylor, Stanford and Tennessee lead the way with the most national titles over the past 20 years.
In the end, finding the right team comes down to fit – a coach’s system that matches your position and skill set, a campus culture you enjoy, an academic program you want to study, and a level of competition that’s challenging but attainable. Leverage campus visits to get first-hand experiences at potential schools.
HOW MANY FULL RIDE SCHOLARSHIPS FOR BASKETBALL ARE THERE?
So you’re hoping to land a full ride basketball scholarship for college? With a lot of hard work and determination, it’s possible! There are about 5,000 full scholarships for men’s basketball and around 15,000 for women’s basketball awarded each year at the NCAA Division 1 level. That may sound like a lot, but competition is fierce.
- The number of scholarships available depends on the division level, number of college teams, and the NCAA scholarship limits for that sport. Division 1 colleges offer the most money.
- Out of the millions of high school basketball players across the country, a tiny percentage will actually get a full scholarship. You have to be among the best of the best.
- Partial scholarships are more common. Coaches divide up the allotted scholarships among multiple players who contribute to the team.
To boost your chances at scoring a full ride:
- Play for your high school team and work hard to become a standout starter. Gain experience competing at the varsity level against tough opponents.
- Attend elite summer basketball camps, play AAU, and get exposure on travel teams. The more coaches see your abilities, the better.
- Contact college coaches directly about recruitment starting sophomore year. Send highlight reels and stats to showcase your skills.
While full basketball scholarships seem scarce, keep working hard and playing your best. You never know when a coach will take notice and offer you the opportunity of a lifetime!
What is an U.S athletic basketball scholarship?

What it means:
A basketball scholarship is an award of financial assistance given to a high school basketball player to attend a university or college and play basketball. It typically covers all or part of your tuition, fees, room and board, books, and other expenses.
How it works:
- Coaches at the NCAA Division 1 and 2 levels can offer scholarships to recruit talented prospects for their basketball teams. The scholarships are renewable each year, based on your athletic and academic performance.
- The amount of athletic scholarship money available for the basketball team is limited and set by the NCAA. So most basketball scholarships do not cover 100% of college costs. Many players may get partial scholarships and need additional financial aid.
- There are athletic and academic requirements to earn and keep a basketball scholarship. You’ll need to continue meeting team rules, practices and academic progress standards set by the NCAA.
Getting noticed by college basketball coaches typically starts in high school by:
- Playing for your high school team and in travel leagues, camps and showcases.
- Promoting your basketball skills and academic achievements.
- Making recruiting videos of your play.
- Reaching out directly to college coaches too.
Landing a basketball scholarship takes talent, persistence and understanding how the recruiting process works. But the financial and career rewards can make it an amazing opportunity!
Can a basketball player go on to play professional basketball in the NBA after graduating from University?
Yes, it is possible for a basketball player to go on to play in the NBA after graduating from university. However, it is very competitive and difficult to achieve. Here are some key things to know:
- Get noticed in high school and college – Scouts start looking at players very early. You need to stand out with strong fundamentals, athleticism, leadership and statistics. Aim to make all-district or all-state teams.
- Play for a strong college program – Top Division 1 basketball colleges get the most exposure. Playing well for a winning, visible team puts you on NBA radars.
- Enter the NBA draft – Exceptional players may declare for the draft after 1-2 years. Most develop skills for 3-4 years before entering.
- Get drafted – Each year 60 players are drafted. To get selected, players must impress during workouts and interviews. Draft position influences initial contracts.
- Join team summer leagues – After the draft, play on your NBA team’s summer league squad. Strong performances can improve chances of making the roster.
- Earn a roster spot – Approximately 450 players have active NBA contracts. As a rookie, you’ll compete with veterans and free agents for one of 30 teams’ 15 spots.
So while the odds are stacked against you, with talent, effort and determination over many years, you can set your sights on an NBA career after university. Along the way, even making some high school or college all-star teams is an impressive accomplishment.
What determines how much scholarship I get in the USA?
The amount of your basketball scholarship depends on several factors.
Your Recruit Rank and Position
- Coaches will evaluate your skills and talent level to determine your recruit ranking. The top recruits in the country receive full scholarships.
- Your position also matters – guards and versatile wings tend to get more money than big men.
Academic Performance
- Coaches want players who will be eligible to play. So your high school grades and test scores are important. The better your academics, the more attractive you are to programs.
Team Needs
- Coaches award scholarships based on roster needs each year. If they need a shooting guard and you play that position well, your chances improve.
Level of College Program
- DI schools have more full scholarships to give than DII, DIII, NAIA or junior colleges. But you can still get an excellent education and develop your game at various levels.
Negotiation
- Don’t be afraid to respectfully ask a coach if they can improve their offer. Let them know you are interested, but a slightly better scholarship might make it easier for you to commit.
The recruiting process requires patience. Keep working hard and the right opportunity will come your way. Staying focused on self-improvement is key – the rest will follow.
Basketball Scholarships FAQ
Getting a basketball scholarship is extremely competitive, but it’s not impossible with the right preparation and performance. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about securing an athletic scholarship to play college basketball.
What do college basketball coaches look for in recruits?
Coaches evaluate a wide range of factors when recruiting players, including:
- Basketball skills and IQ: Can you dribble, pass, shoot and rebound at a high level for your position? Do you understand offensive and defensive schemes? What basketball-specific skills need development?
- Athleticism: Speed, vertical leap, coordination, strength and stamina. College basketball is very athletic.
- Potential and work ethic: How much can you improve in college with great coaching and facilities? Will you put in the extra work?
- Academics: Can you meet admission requirements and maintain your grades? Academic performance impacts eligibility.
- Character and attitude: Will you fit into team culture and accept your role? Coaches want great teammates.
What can I do to get recruited in high school?
- Play for your high school team all four years and work hard to improve.
- Attend college team camps and recruiting events to gain exposure. These allow coaches to evaluate you in person.
- Create highlight videos and send to college coaches starting junior year. Focus these on your skills, athleticism and basketball IQ.
- Have your high school coach actively promote and contact college programs about you. Their reputation and relationships carry weight.
Playing a prominent role on a successful AAU travel team can also increase chances for recruitment and scholarship offers.
How do I know if I’m good enough to play college basketball?
Honestly evaluate your skills compared to current college players at your position. If you have the talent to successfully contribute at some level of college basketball by your late high school years, you may have a chance at an athletic scholarship.
There are over 300 Division 1 basketball programs with roster needs each year. But only the very elite players obtain scholarships at top 25 type schools. Division 2 and 3 colleges offer athletic scholarships too and may provide the best fit and financial aid package.
Discuss your goals thoroughly with your high school and AAU coaches. Have them connect you with college programs matching your ability level to set realistic expectations. With proper training and exposure, landing a basketball scholarship is possible for dedicated student-athletes.
Conclusion
So there you have it, the inside track on landing that coveted basketball scholarship. Sure it takes hard work and dedication, but keep your eyes on the prize of playing college ball and attaining that degree. Just remember, focus on improving your skills and being a team player.
Keep those grades up too. Reach out to coaches starting sophomore year and make the most of the opportunities to be seen at camps and tournaments. You got this! Trust the process, play with passion, and leave everything on the court each and every game. Stay confident, be a leader, live the right way off the court, and the rest will take care of itself. We’ll be cheering you on!