By Kevin Agee
As a head basketball recruiting coach, I talk recruiting with many families on a weekly basis. One common area of confusion for families involves the scholarship opportunities for college bound basketball recruits. Each level of play (Division I, Division II, Division III, NAIA) has different scholarship rules and amounts, and it is important to understand what each level can provide.
NCAA Division I basketball programs may offer up to 13 full scholarships in men’s basketball and 15 full scholarships in women’s basketball. Typically, the student-athletes at this level are receiving full scholarships that cover all costs including tuition, room and board.
NCAA Division II basketball programs can offer up to 10 scholarships for both men’s and women’s basketball. Again, most all of these student-athletes are receiving full scholarships that cover the majority of their costs to attend the college or university.
NAIA Division I basketball offers 11 full scholarships for men’s and women’s basketball. Much like DII, these colleges are able to cover the majority of the costs their student-athletes will need covered.
NAIA Division II basketball offers six full scholarships for men’s and women’s basketball. These scholarships are often divided between members of the team. Performance and seniority may play a role in how much of the partial scholarship an individual receives. The decision on how much money each student-athlete receives typically depends on the coaching staff.
NCAA Division III is much different than Division I or Division II. Colleges and Universities at the DIII level do not offer athletic scholarships. These institutions can, however, award academic scholarships and grants and need-based aid to athletes.
It is important to create leverage throughout the recruiting process, as colleges and universities at any level do not want to lose student-athletes to their competition, especially those within their own conference. If an athlete has multiple offers from various colleges, they can often increase their chances of receiving more money for college. Being proactive throughout the recruiting process and involving as many college coaches as possible will make a prospect more attractive, and may help them to create a situation where they are presented with options. A student-athlete with options is most apt to select the perfect college fit.
