Division 1 basketball programs offer a limited number of athletic scholarships each year. For men’s teams, the NCAA allows 13 scholarships per school. Women’s teams can offer 15 scholarships per school. This means there are about 4,900 D1 men’s and 5,600 D1 women’s basketball scholarships available across the country.
Understanding the Numbers
There are 351 Division 1 men’s basketball teams and 351 Division 1 women’s basketball teams as of the 2025-26 season. Each men’s team can give out 13 full-ride scholarships, while each women’s team can give out 15. These numbers are set by the NCAA and apply to all D1 programs, regardless of conference or school size.
However, not every school uses all its scholarships every year. Some programs prefer to spread their scholarships among more players, offering partial scholarships instead of full rides. This is especially common in women’s basketball, where the 15-scholarship limit is higher.
Men’s vs. Women’s D1 Basketball Scholarships
The NCAA sets different scholarship limits for men’s and women’s basketball. Men’s teams are limited to 13 scholarships, while women’s teams can offer 15. This difference reflects the overall scholarship limits for men’s and women’s sports under NCAA rules.
| Division 1 Basketball | Scholarships per Team | Total Teams | Total Scholarships |
|---|---|---|---|
| Men’s | 13 | 351 | 4,563 |
| Women’s | 15 | 351 | 5,265 |
These numbers are the maximum allowed. Many teams do not have all scholarships filled at any given time. Some athletes may receive less than a full scholarship, which reduces the total number of full rides a team gives out.
How Scholarships Are Awarded
D1 basketball scholarships are typically awarded as one-year renewable contracts. Coaches decide each year whether to renew a player’s scholarship. This means a scholarship is not guaranteed for all four years unless the school offers a multi-year agreement, which is allowed but not required.
Scholarships cover tuition, fees, room, board, and sometimes books. They do not cover personal expenses or travel. Many athletes also receive academic scholarships or need-based aid to cover additional costs.
Full vs. Partial Scholarships
In men’s basketball, most scholarships are full rides because the limit is low and teams prefer to give complete offers. In women’s basketball, coaches often split scholarships into partial offers to attract more players. For example, a coach might give five players one-third scholarships instead of one full ride to one player.
If you receive a partial scholarship, you can still combine it with academic aid or other grants. Always ask the coach what the scholarship covers and whether it is renewable.
How Many Players Get Scholarships Each Year?
Each D1 basketball team can sign up to 7 new players per year, but most sign fewer. The average team brings in about 3 to 4 new scholarship players each season. This means roughly 1,200 to 1,400 new D1 men’s basketball scholarships are awarded annually. For women’s, the number is slightly higher, around 1,400 to 1,600.
These numbers vary by year because some players transfer or leave early. Coaches may have extra scholarships available if players graduate or depart.
Scholarship Limits by NCAA Rules
The NCAA sets strict limits on how many scholarships a team can offer. These rules are the same for all D1 schools, whether they are in a major conference or a smaller league. The limits are:
- Men’s basketball: 13 scholarships per team
- Women’s basketball: 15 scholarships per team
- Each scholarship counts against the team’s total, even if it is partial
- Scholarships are awarded for one year at a time, but can be renewed
These rules are designed to keep competition fair and to help schools manage athletic budgets. Coaches cannot exceed these limits, even if they have extra funding.
What This Means for You
If you are a high school player hoping for a D1 scholarship, you are competing for a very limited number of spots. Only about 1% of high school basketball players receive any type of NCAA athletic scholarship. For D1 specifically, the odds are even lower.
Focus on academics as well as athletics. Many coaches look for players who can also qualify for academic scholarships, which can free up athletic money for other recruits. Also, consider D2 or NAIA schools, which offer more scholarship flexibility.
Start your recruiting process early. Create a highlight video, attend camps, and reach out to coaches. The more visible you are, the better your chances of earning one of these rare scholarships.
Final Thoughts
In summary, D1 basketball scholarships are scarce but real opportunities. Men’s teams have 13 scholarships, and women’s teams have 15. With roughly 351 teams in each division, that adds up to about 4,563 men’s and 5,265 women’s scholarships total. But because not every team fills all spots, the actual number of athletes on scholarship is lower. Stay persistent, keep your grades up, and make yourself known to coaches. That is the best way to secure one of these valuable awards.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many D1 basketball scholarships are available per team?
Men’s teams can offer 13 scholarships, and women’s teams can offer 15 scholarships per year.
Do D1 basketball scholarships cover full tuition?
Yes, most D1 basketball scholarships are full rides that cover tuition, fees, room, board, and books, but they do not cover personal expenses.
Can a D1 basketball scholarship be revoked?
Yes, scholarships are one-year renewable contracts, and coaches can choose not to renew them for the next year, though they must follow NCAA rules.
How many new D1 basketball scholarships are given each year?
On average, each team signs 3 to 4 new players, leading to roughly 1,200 to 1,600 new scholarships annually across all D1 programs.
Are D1 basketball scholarships guaranteed for four years?
No, they are not guaranteed. Coaches can offer multi-year agreements, but most are one-year renewable, so performance and conduct matter.
