NCAA DIVISION II BASKETBALL COLLEGES Complete D2 List

Last updated: May 2026. This NCAA Division II basketball colleges list is maintained to help players, parents, and coaches research D2 men’s basketball programs by school, location, conference, public/private status, and level.

NCAA Division II men’s basketball gives student-athletes a competitive college basketball pathway while still allowing them to pursue academics, campus life, and long-term career goals. D2 programs can be a strong fit for players who want high-level basketball, structured development, and realistic opportunities to compete for playing time.

There are hundreds of NCAA Division II men’s basketball programs across the United States. These schools include public universities, private colleges, regional programs, and nationally competitive D2 basketball programs. For recruits, this list can help build a smarter recruiting plan by identifying schools that may match their athletic level, academic profile, location preferences, and position.

The Unique Appeal of NCAA Division II Basketball

Division II basketball is competitive, but it often provides a more balanced college experience than Division I. Many D2 programs still train seriously, travel, compete for conference championships, and pursue NCAA tournament opportunities, but the overall environment may offer more balance between athletics, academics, and personal development.

For many players, D2 can be one of the best opportunities in college basketball. Athletes may find strong coaching, athletic scholarships, competitive schedules, and a better chance to earn a real role on the team. Instead of chasing only the biggest name, recruits should focus on finding a program where they can develop, contribute, graduate, and enjoy the full college experience.

For players who want to compare every level in one place, visit our full College Basketball Recruiting Hub for recruiting guides, college lists, and current basketball openings.

Recruiting in Division II Basketball

Getting recruited by an NCAA Division II basketball program takes planning, consistency, and targeted outreach. D2 coaches are looking for players who can compete, handle college-level expectations, succeed academically, and fit the team’s culture.

Division II recruiting may not always get the same attention as Division I recruiting, but it is still highly competitive. Many D2 programs recruit serious players with strong high school, JUCO, post-grad, transfer, or international experience. Players should be prepared with updated film, accurate stats, academic information, coach references, and a clear explanation of why they fit the program.

One of the best ways to save time is to target programs that may actually need your position. Instead of contacting every D2 school, players should focus on programs where their class, position, size, skill set, academics, and playing style match a possible roster need.

College Basketball Openings helps players, parents, coaches, and recruiting services find current college basketball recruiting opportunities across multiple levels, including NCAA Division II. By using current openings and roster information, athletes can contact coaches more strategically and focus on programs that may be actively looking for players like them.

Complete NCAA Division II Men’s Basketball Colleges List

Use the list below to research NCAA Division II men’s basketball programs by school, location, conference, public/private status, and level. As you review the list, remember that the best recruiting list should include programs that match your athletic ability, academic profile, position, location preferences, financial situation, and realistic opportunity level.

Adams State University – Alamosa, Colorado – Public – Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Adelphi University – Garden City, New York – Private – Northeast-10 Conference – NCAA D2
University of Alabama in Huntsville – Huntsville, Alabama – Public – Gulf South Conference – NCAA D2
University of Alaska Anchorage – Anchorage, Alaska – Public – Great Northwest Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
University of Alaska Fairbanks – Fairbanks, Alaska – Public – Great Northwest Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Albany State University – Albany, Georgia – Public – Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Allen University – Columbia, South Carolina – Private – Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
American International College – Springfield, Massachusetts – Private – Northeast-10 Conference – NCAA D2
Anderson University – Anderson, South Carolina – Private – South Atlantic Conference – NCAA D2
Angelo State University – San Angelo, Texas – Public – Lone Star Conference – NCAA D2
University of Arkansas–Fort Smith – Fort Smith, Arkansas – Public – Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association – NCAA D2
University of Arkansas at Monticello – Monticello, Arkansas – Public – Great American Conference – NCAA D2
Arkansas Tech University – Russellville, Arkansas – Public – Great American Conference – NCAA D2
Ashland University – Ashland, Ohio – Private – Great Midwest Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Assumption University – Worcester, Massachusetts – Private – Northeast-10 Conference – NCAA D2
Auburn University at Montgomery – Montgomery, Alabama – Public – Gulf South Conference – NCAA D2
Augusta University – Augusta, Georgia – Public – Peach Belt Conference – NCAA D2
Augustana University – Sioux Falls, South Dakota – Private – Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference – NCAA D2
Azusa Pacific University – Azusa, California – Private – Pacific West Conference – NCAA D2
Barry University – Miami Shores, Florida – Private – Sunshine State Conference – NCAA D2
Barton College – Wilson, North Carolina – Private – Conference Carolinas – NCAA D2
Belmont Abbey College – Belmont, North Carolina – Private – Conference Carolinas – NCAA D2
Bemidji State University – Bemidji, Minnesota – Public – Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference – NCAA D2
Benedict College – Columbia, South Carolina – Private – Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Bentley University – Waltham, Massachusetts – Private – Northeast-10 Conference – NCAA D2
Biola University – La Mirada, California – Private – Pacific West Conference – NCAA D2
Black Hills State University – Spearfish, South Dakota – Public – Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Bloomsburg University – Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania – Public – Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Bluefield State University – Bluefield, West Virginia – Public – Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association – NCAA D2
Bowie State University – Bowie, Maryland – Public – Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association – NCAA D2
University of Bridgeport – Bridgeport, Connecticut – Private – Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference – NCAA D2
Caldwell University – Caldwell, New Jersey – Private – Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference – NCAA D2
California University of Pennsylvania – California, Pennsylvania – Public – Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Cal Poly Humboldt – Arcata, California – Public – California Collegiate Athletic Association – NCAA D2
Cal Poly Pomona – Pomona, California – Public – California Collegiate Athletic Association – NCAA D2
Cal State Dominguez Hills – Carson, California – Public – California Collegiate Athletic Association – NCAA D2
Cal State East Bay – Hayward, California – Public – California Collegiate Athletic Association – NCAA D2
Cal State Los Angeles – Los Angeles, California – Public – California Collegiate Athletic Association – NCAA D2
Cal State Monterey Bay – Seaside, California – Public – California Collegiate Athletic Association – NCAA D2
Cal State San Bernardino – San Bernardino, California – Public – California Collegiate Athletic Association – NCAA D2
Cal State San Marcos – San Marcos, California – Public – California Collegiate Athletic Association – NCAA D2
Cal State Stanislaus – Turlock, California – Public – California Collegiate Athletic Association – NCAA D2
Cameron University – Lawton, Oklahoma – Public – Lone Star Conference – NCAA D2
Carson-Newman University – Jefferson City, Tennessee – Private – South Atlantic Conference – NCAA D2
Catawba College – Salisbury, North Carolina – Private – South Atlantic Conference – NCAA D2
Cedarville University – Cedarville, Ohio – Private – Great Midwest Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
University of Central Missouri – Warrensburg, Missouri – Public – Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association – NCAA D2
University of Central Oklahoma – Edmond, Oklahoma – Public – Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association – NCAA D2
Central State University – Wilberforce, Ohio – Public – Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Central Washington University – Ellensburg, Washington – Public – Great Northwest Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Chadron State College – Chadron, Nebraska – Public – Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Chaminade University of Honolulu – Honolulu, Hawaii – Private – Pacific West Conference – NCAA D2
University of Charleston – Charleston, West Virginia – Private – Mountain East Conference – NCAA D2
Chestnut Hill College – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Private – Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference – NCAA D2
Chico State – Chico, California – Public – California Collegiate Athletic Association – NCAA D2
Chowan University – Murfreesboro, North Carolina – Private – Conference Carolinas – NCAA D2
Christian Brothers University – Memphis, Tennessee – Private – Gulf South Conference – NCAA D2
Claflin University – Orangeburg, South Carolina – Private – Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association – NCAA D2
Clarion University – Clarion, Pennsylvania – Public – Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Clark Atlanta University – Atlanta, Georgia – Private – Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Clayton State University – Morrow, Georgia – Public – Peach Belt Conference – NCAA D2
Coker University – Hartsville, South Carolina – Private – South Atlantic Conference – NCAA D2
Colorado Christian University – Lakewood, Colorado – Private – Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Colorado Mesa University – Grand Junction, Colorado – Public – Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Colorado School of Mines – Golden, Colorado – Public – Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Colorado State University Pueblo – Pueblo, Colorado – Public – Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Columbus State University – Columbus, Georgia – Public – Peach Belt Conference – NCAA D2
Concord University – Athens, West Virginia – Public – Mountain East Conference – NCAA D2
Concordia University Irvine – Irvine, California – Private – Pacific West Conference – NCAA D2
Concordia University, St. Paul – Saint Paul, Minnesota – Private – Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference – NCAA D2
Converse University – Spartanburg, South Carolina – Private – Conference Carolinas – NCAA D2
D’Youville University – Buffalo, New York – Private – East Coast Conference – NCAA D2
Daemen University – Amherst, New York – Private – East Coast Conference – NCAA D2
Dallas Baptist University – Dallas, Texas – Private – Lone Star Conference – NCAA D2
Davenport University – Grand Rapids, Michigan – Private – Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Davis & Elkins College – Elkins, West Virginia – Private – Mountain East Conference – NCAA D2
Delta State University – Cleveland, Mississippi – Public – Gulf South Conference – NCAA D2
Dominican University of California – San Rafael, California – Private – Pacific West Conference – NCAA D2
Dominican University New York – Orangeburg, New York – Private – Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference – NCAA D2
Drury University – Springfield, Missouri – Private – Great Lakes Valley Conference – NCAA D2
East Central University – Ada, Oklahoma – Public – Great American Conference – NCAA D2
East Stroudsburg University – East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania – Public – Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Eastern New Mexico University – Portales, New Mexico – Public – Lone Star Conference – NCAA D2
Eckerd College – St. Petersburg, Florida – Private – Sunshine State Conference – NCAA D2
Edinboro University – Edinboro, Pennsylvania – Public – Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Edward Waters University – Jacksonville, Florida – Private – Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Elizabeth City State University – Elizabeth City, North Carolina – Public – Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association – NCAA D2
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University – Daytona Beach, Florida – Private – Sunshine State Conference – NCAA D2
Emmanuel University – Franklin Springs, Georgia – Private – Conference Carolinas – NCAA D2
Emory & Henry University – Emory, Virginia – Private – South Atlantic Conference – NCAA D2
Emporia State University – Emporia, Kansas – Public – Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association – NCAA D2
Erskine College – Due West, South Carolina – Private – Conference Carolinas – NCAA D2
Fairmont State University – Fairmont, West Virginia – Public – Mountain East Conference – NCAA D2
Fayetteville State University – Fayetteville, North Carolina – Public – Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association – NCAA D2
Felician University – Lodi, New Jersey – Private – Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference – NCAA D2
Ferris State University – Big Rapids, Michigan – Public – Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Ferrum College – Ferrum, Virginia – Private – Conference Carolinas – NCAA D2
University of Findlay – Findlay, Ohio – Private – Great Midwest Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Flagler College – St. Augustine, Florida – Private – Peach Belt Conference – NCAA D2
Florida Southern College – Lakeland, Florida – Private – Sunshine State Conference – NCAA D2
Florida Tech – Melbourne, Florida – Private – Sunshine State Conference – NCAA D2
Fort Hays State University – Hays, Kansas – Public – Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association – NCAA D2
Fort Lewis College – Durango, Colorado – Public – Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Fort Valley State University – Fort Valley, Georgia – Public – Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Francis Marion University – Florence, South Carolina – Public – Conference Carolinas – NCAA D2
Franklin Pierce University – Rindge, New Hampshire – Private – Northeast-10 Conference – NCAA D2
Fresno Pacific University – Fresno, California – Private – Pacific West Conference – NCAA D2
Frostburg State University – Frostburg, Maryland – Public – Mountain East Conference – NCAA D2
Gannon University – Erie, Pennsylvania – Private – Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Georgia College & State University – Milledgeville, Georgia – Public – Peach Belt Conference – NCAA D2
Georgia Southwestern State University – Americus, Georgia – Public – Peach Belt Conference – NCAA D2
Georgian Court University – Lakewood, New Jersey – Private – Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference – NCAA D2
Glenville State University – Glenville, West Virginia – Public – Mountain East Conference – NCAA D2
Goldey-Beacom College – Wilmington, Delaware – Private – Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference – NCAA D2
Grand Valley State University – Allendale, Michigan – Public – Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Harding University – Searcy, Arkansas – Private – Great American Conference – NCAA D2
University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo – Hilo, Hawaii – Public – Pacific West Conference – NCAA D2
Hawaii Pacific University – Honolulu, Hawaii – Private – Pacific West Conference – NCAA D2
Henderson State University – Arkadelphia, Arkansas – Public – Great American Conference – NCAA D2
Hillsdale College – Hillsdale, Michigan – Private – Great Midwest Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Holy Family University – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Private – Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference – NCAA D2
University of Illinois Springfield – Springfield, Illinois – Public – Great Lakes Valley Conference – NCAA D2
Indiana University of Pennsylvania – Indiana, Pennsylvania – Public – Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
University of Indianapolis – Indianapolis, Indiana – Private – Great Lakes Valley Conference – NCAA D2
University of Jamestown – Jamestown, North Dakota – Private – Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference – NCAA D2
Thomas Jefferson University – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Private – Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference – NCAA D2
Jessup University – Rocklin, California – Private – Pacific West Conference – NCAA D2
Johnson C. Smith University – Charlotte, North Carolina – Private – Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association – NCAA D2
Kentucky State University – Frankfort, Kentucky – Public – Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Kentucky Wesleyan College – Owensboro, Kentucky – Private – Great Midwest Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
King University – Bristol, Tennessee – Private – Conference Carolinas – NCAA D2
Kutztown University – Kutztown, Pennsylvania – Public – Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Lake Erie College – Painesville, Ohio – Private – Great Midwest Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Lake Superior State University – Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan – Public – Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Lander University – Greenwood, South Carolina – Public – Peach Belt Conference – NCAA D2
Lane College – Jackson, Tennessee – Private – Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Lee University – Cleveland, Tennessee – Private – Gulf South Conference – NCAA D2
Lees-McRae College – Banner Elk, North Carolina – Private – Conference Carolinas – NCAA D2
LeMoyne-Owen College – Memphis, Tennessee – Private – Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Lenoir-Rhyne University – Hickory, North Carolina – Private – South Atlantic Conference – NCAA D2
Lewis University – Romeoville, Illinois – Private – Great Lakes Valley Conference – NCAA D2
Lincoln Memorial University – Harrogate, Tennessee – Private – South Atlantic Conference – NCAA D2
Lincoln University – Jefferson City, Missouri – Public – Great Lakes Valley Conference – NCAA D2
Lincoln University of Pennsylvania – Oxford, Pennsylvania – Public – Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association – NCAA D2
Livingstone College – Salisbury, North Carolina – Private – Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association – NCAA D2
Lock Haven University – Lock Haven, Pennsylvania – Public – Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Lubbock Christian University – Lubbock, Texas – Private – Lone Star Conference – NCAA D2
Lynn University – Boca Raton, Florida – Private – Sunshine State Conference – NCAA D2
Malone University – Canton, Ohio – Private – Great Midwest Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Mansfield University – Mansfield, Pennsylvania – Public – Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Mars Hill University – Mars Hill, North Carolina – Private – South Atlantic Conference – NCAA D2
University of Mary – Bismarck, North Dakota – Private – Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference – NCAA D2
Maryville University – St. Louis, Missouri – Private – Great Lakes Valley Conference – NCAA D2
McKendree University – Lebanon, Illinois – Private – Great Lakes Valley Conference – NCAA D2
Menlo College – Atherton, California – Private – Pacific West Conference – NCAA D2
Mercy University – Dobbs Ferry, New York – Private – East Coast Conference – NCAA D2
Metropolitan State University of Denver – Denver, Colorado – Public – Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Michigan Technological University – Houghton, Michigan – Public – Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Middle Georgia State University – Cochran, Georgia – Public – Peach Belt Conference – NCAA D2
Midwestern State University – Wichita Falls, Texas – Public – Lone Star Conference – NCAA D2
Miles College – Fairfield, Alabama – Private – Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Millersville University – Millersville, Pennsylvania – Public – Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
University of Minnesota Crookston – Crookston, Minnesota – Public – Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference – NCAA D2
University of Minnesota Duluth – Duluth, Minnesota – Public – Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference – NCAA D2
Minnesota State University, Mankato – Mankato, Minnesota – Public – Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference – NCAA D2
Minnesota State University Moorhead – Moorhead, Minnesota – Public – Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference – NCAA D2
Minot State University – Minot, North Dakota – Public – Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference – NCAA D2
Mississippi College – Clinton, Mississippi – Private – Gulf South Conference – NCAA D2
Missouri Southern State University – Joplin, Missouri – Public – Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association – NCAA D2
Missouri University of Science and Technology – Rolla, Missouri – Public – Great Lakes Valley Conference – NCAA D2
Missouri Western State University – St. Joseph, Missouri – Public – Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association – NCAA D2
Molloy University – Rockville Centre, New York – Private – East Coast Conference – NCAA D2
Montana State University Billings – Billings, Montana – Public – Great Northwest Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
University of Montevallo – Montevallo, Alabama – Public – Gulf South Conference – NCAA D2
Morehouse College – Atlanta, Georgia – Private – Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
University of Mount Olive – Mount Olive, North Carolina – Private – Conference Carolinas – NCAA D2
New Mexico Highlands University – Las Vegas, New Mexico – Public – Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
University of Nebraska at Kearney – Kearney, Nebraska – Public – Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association – NCAA D2
Newberry College – Newberry, South Carolina – Private – South Atlantic Conference – NCAA D2
Newman University – Wichita, Kansas – Private – Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association – NCAA D2
University of North Georgia – Dahlonega, Georgia – Public – Peach Belt Conference – NCAA D2
North Greenville University – Tigerville, South Carolina – Private – Conference Carolinas – NCAA D2
Northeastern State University – Tahlequah, Oklahoma – Public – Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association – NCAA D2
Northern Michigan University – Marquette, Michigan – Public – Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Northern State University – Aberdeen, South Dakota – Public – Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference – NCAA D2
Northwest Missouri State University – Maryville, Missouri – Public – Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association – NCAA D2
Northwest Nazarene University – Nampa, Idaho – Private – Great Northwest Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Northwestern Oklahoma State University – Alva, Oklahoma – Public – Great American Conference – NCAA D2
Northwood University – Midland, Michigan – Private – Great Midwest Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Nova Southeastern University – Fort Lauderdale, Florida – Private – Sunshine State Conference – NCAA D2
Ohio Dominican University – Columbus, Ohio – Private – Great Midwest Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Oklahoma Baptist University – Shawnee, Oklahoma – Private – Great American Conference – NCAA D2
Oklahoma Christian University – Edmond, Oklahoma – Private – Lone Star Conference – NCAA D2
Ouachita Baptist University – Arkadelphia, Arkansas – Private – Great American Conference – NCAA D2
Pace University – New York, New York – Private – Northeast-10 Conference – NCAA D2
Palm Beach Atlantic University – West Palm Beach, Florida – Private – Sunshine State Conference – NCAA D2
University of Wisconsin–Parkside – Kenosha, Wisconsin – Public – Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Pittsburg State University – Pittsburg, Kansas – Public – Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association – NCAA D2
University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown – Johnstown, Pennsylvania – Public – Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Point Loma Nazarene University – San Diego, California – Private – Pacific West Conference – NCAA D2
Point Park University – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – Private – Mountain East Conference – NCAA D2
Post University – Waterbury, Connecticut – Private – Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference – NCAA D2
Purdue University Northwest – Hammond, Indiana – Public – Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Queens College – New York City, New York – Public – East Coast Conference – NCAA D2
Quincy University – Quincy, Illinois – Private – Great Lakes Valley Conference – NCAA D2
Regis University – Denver, Colorado – Private – Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Roberts Wesleyan University – Rochester, New York – Private – East Coast Conference – NCAA D2
Rockhurst University – Kansas City, Missouri – Private – Great Lakes Valley Conference – NCAA D2
Rogers State University – Claremore, Oklahoma – Public – Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association – NCAA D2
Rollins College – Winter Park, Florida – Private – Sunshine State Conference – NCAA D2
Roosevelt University – Chicago, Illinois – Private – Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Saginaw Valley State University – University Center, Michigan – Public – Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Saint Anselm College – Manchester, New Hampshire – Private – Northeast-10 Conference – NCAA D2
Saint Leo University – St. Leo, Florida – Private – Sunshine State Conference – NCAA D2
Saint Martin’s University – Lacey, Washington – Private – Great Northwest Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Saint Michael’s College – Colchester, Vermont – Private – Northeast-10 Conference – NCAA D2
Salem University – Salem, West Virginia – Private – Independent – NCAA D2
San Francisco State University – San Francisco, California – Public – California Collegiate Athletic Association – NCAA D2
Savannah State University – Savannah, Georgia – Public – Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Seattle Pacific University – Seattle, Washington – Private – Great Northwest Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Seton Hill University – Greensburg, Pennsylvania – Private – Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Shaw University – Raleigh, North Carolina – Private – Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association – NCAA D2
Shepherd University – Shepherdstown, West Virginia – Public – Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Shippensburg University – Shippensburg, Pennsylvania – Public – Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Shorter University – Rome, Georgia – Private – Conference Carolinas – NCAA D2
Simon Fraser University – Burnaby, British Columbia – Public – Great Northwest Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
University of Sioux Falls – Sioux Falls, South Dakota – Private – Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference – NCAA D2
Slippery Rock University – Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania – Public – Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
South Dakota Mines – Rapid City, South Dakota – Public – Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Southeastern Oklahoma State University – Durant, Oklahoma – Public – Great American Conference – NCAA D2
Southern Arkansas University – Magnolia, Arkansas – Public – Great American Conference – NCAA D2
Southern Connecticut State University – New Haven, Connecticut – Public – Northeast-10 Conference – NCAA D2
Southern Nazarene University – Bethany, Oklahoma – Private – Great American Conference – NCAA D2
Southern New Hampshire University – Manchester, New Hampshire – Private – Northeast-10 Conference – NCAA D2
Southern Wesleyan University – Central, South Carolina – Private – Conference Carolinas – NCAA D2
Southwest Baptist University – Bolivar, Missouri – Private – Great Lakes Valley Conference – NCAA D2
Southwest Minnesota State University – Marshall, Minnesota – Public – Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference – NCAA D2
Southwestern Oklahoma State University – Weatherford, Oklahoma – Public – Great American Conference – NCAA D2
Spring Hill College – Mobile, Alabama – Private – Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
St. Cloud State University – St. Cloud, Minnesota – Public – Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference – NCAA D2
St. Edward’s University – Austin, Texas – Private – Lone Star Conference – NCAA D2
St. Mary’s University – San Antonio, Texas – Private – Lone Star Conference – NCAA D2
St. Thomas Aquinas College – Sparkill, New York – Private – East Coast Conference – NCAA D2
College of Staten Island – New York City, New York – Public – East Coast Conference – NCAA D2
Sul Ross State University – Alpine, Texas – Public – Lone Star Conference – NCAA D2
University of Tampa – Tampa, Florida – Private – Sunshine State Conference – NCAA D2
Texas A&M International University – Laredo, Texas – Public – Lone Star Conference – NCAA D2
Texas A&M University–Kingsville – Kingsville, Texas – Public – Lone Star Conference – NCAA D2
Thomas More University – Crestview Hills, Kentucky – Private – Great Midwest Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Tiffin University – Tiffin, Ohio – Private – Great Midwest Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Trevecca Nazarene University – Nashville, Tennessee – Private – Gulf South Conference – NCAA D2
Truman State University – Kirksville, Missouri – Public – Great Lakes Valley Conference – NCAA D2
Tusculum University – Greeneville, Tennessee – Private – South Atlantic Conference – NCAA D2
Tuskegee University – Tuskegee, Alabama – Private – Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
University of California, Merced – Merced, California – Public – California Collegiate Athletic Association – NCAA D2
University of Colorado Colorado Springs – Colorado Springs, Colorado – Public – Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
University of the District of Columbia – Washington, District of Columbia – Public – East Coast Conference – NCAA D2
University of Missouri–St. Louis – St. Louis, Missouri – Public – Great Lakes Valley Conference – NCAA D2
University of North Carolina at Pembroke – Pembroke, North Carolina – Public – Conference Carolinas – NCAA D2
Union University – Jackson, Tennessee – Private – Gulf South Conference – NCAA D2
Upper Iowa University – Fayette, Iowa – Private – Great Lakes Valley Conference – NCAA D2
University of South Carolina Aiken – Aiken, South Carolina – Public – Peach Belt Conference – NCAA D2
University of South Carolina Beaufort – Bluffton, South Carolina – Public – Peach Belt Conference – NCAA D2
University of Texas Permian Basin – Odessa, Texas – Public – Lone Star Conference – NCAA D2
University of Virginia’s College at Wise – Wise, Virginia – Public – South Atlantic Conference – NCAA D2
Valdosta State University – Valdosta, Georgia – Public – Gulf South Conference – NCAA D2
Vanguard University – Costa Mesa, California – Private – Pacific West Conference – NCAA D2
Virginia State University – Petersburg, Virginia – Public – Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association – NCAA D2
Virginia Union University – Richmond, Virginia – Private – Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association – NCAA D2
Walsh University – North Canton, Ohio – Private – Great Midwest Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Washburn University – Topeka, Kansas – Public – Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association – NCAA D2
Wayne State College – Wayne, Nebraska – Public – Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference – NCAA D2
Wayne State University – Detroit, Michigan – Public – Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
University of West Alabama – Livingston, Alabama – Public – Gulf South Conference – NCAA D2
West Chester University – West Chester, Pennsylvania – Public – Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
University of West Florida – Pensacola, Florida – Public – Gulf South Conference – NCAA D2
West Liberty University – West Liberty, West Virginia – Public – Mountain East Conference – NCAA D2
West Texas A&M University – Canyon, Texas – Public – Lone Star Conference – NCAA D2
West Virginia State University – Institute, West Virginia – Public – Mountain East Conference – NCAA D2
West Virginia Wesleyan College – Buckhannon, West Virginia – Private – Mountain East Conference – NCAA D2
Western Colorado University – Gunnison, Colorado – Public – Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Western New Mexico University – Silver City, New Mexico – Public – Lone Star Conference – NCAA D2
Western Oregon University – Monmouth, Oregon – Public – Great Northwest Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Western Washington University – Bellingham, Washington – Public – Great Northwest Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Westminster University – Salt Lake City, Utah – Private – Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference – NCAA D2
Westmont College – Santa Barbara, California – Private – Pacific West Conference – NCAA D2
Wheeling University – Wheeling, West Virginia – Private – Mountain East Conference – NCAA D2
William Jewell College – Liberty, Missouri – Private – Great Lakes Valley Conference – NCAA D2
Wilmington University – New Castle, Delaware – Private – Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference – NCAA D2
Wingate University – Wingate, North Carolina – Private – South Atlantic Conference – NCAA D2
Winona State University – Winona, Minnesota – Public – Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference – NCAA D2
Winston-Salem State University – Winston-Salem, North Carolina – Public – Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association – NCAA D2
Young Harris College – Young Harris, Georgia – Private – Conference Carolinas – NCAA D2

Available Sports

• Football Openings
• Baseball Openings
• Soccer Openings
• Esports Openings
• Basketball Openings 

How This D2 Basketball Colleges List Can Help You

This NCAA Division II basketball colleges list is designed to help players, parents, coaches, and recruiting services research programs more strategically. Instead of guessing which schools may be realistic options, athletes can use this list to compare D2 programs by school, location, conference, public/private status, and overall fit.

A strong recruiting list should include more than just well-known programs or nationally ranked teams. Players should also consider academics, location, roster needs, scholarship possibilities, team culture, playing style, and whether the school may need their position.

What It Takes to Succeed at the Division II Level

Competing in NCAA Division II basketball requires commitment, discipline, and balance. D2 athletes still practice, lift, travel, study film, attend classes, and compete against talented players. The level is serious, and many Division II players are strong enough to compete at high levels of college basketball.

The difference is that Division II often gives student-athletes a more balanced college experience. Players may have more room to focus on academics, campus life, internships, career development, and long-term goals outside of basketball.

To succeed at the D2 level, players should be prepared to show:

Strong basketball skills
Consistent work ethic
Good academic habits
Coachability
Team-first attitude
Clear communication with coaches
A realistic understanding of their level and fit

Division II Basketball Scholarships and Financial Aid

NCAA Division II programs can offer athletic scholarships, but most D2 basketball scholarships are partial scholarships. Coaches often divide scholarship money among multiple players instead of giving every athlete a full ride.

Because of this, student-athletes should look at the full financial picture. Athletic aid, academic scholarships, need-based financial aid, grants, and family budget all matter. A D2 program may still be a strong opportunity even if the athletic scholarship is partial, especially if the school offers academic money or a strong overall financial package.

Players should always ask coaches clear questions about scholarship availability, renewal requirements, housing costs, tuition, academic aid, and what the total yearly cost may be.

How to Build a Smarter Division II Recruiting List

When researching Division II basketball schools, do not focus only on rankings. Rankings can show which programs are currently performing well, but they do not tell you whether a school needs your position, fits your academic goals, or gives you a realistic chance to play.

A smarter D2 recruiting list should consider:

Your position
Your height and physical profile
Your stats and film
Your GPA and academic record
Your location preferences
Your desired major
The team’s roster needs
The program’s playing style
The school’s cost after aid
The coach’s interest level

The best school is not always the biggest name. The best school is the one where you can develop, contribute, graduate, and have a real opportunity to succeed.

How College Basketball Openings Can Help

College Basketball Openings helps players find current recruiting opportunities instead of contacting schools blindly. This can save time because athletes can focus on programs that may be actively looking for their position, class, size, skill set, or player type.

For example, if a D2 program is still recruiting guards, wings, forwards, bigs, JUCO transfers, unsigned seniors, or post-grad players, that information can help athletes make smarter contact decisions.

Instead of sending the same message to every coach, players can use current openings to build a more targeted outreach plan.

How to Contact Division II Basketball Coaches

When contacting D2 coaches, keep your message clear, direct, and specific. Coaches are busy, so your email should make it easy for them to evaluate you quickly.

Include:

Your name
Class year
Position
Height and weight
School or current team
GPA
Stats
Highlight video link
Full game film if available
Coach contact information
Why you are interested in their program

Do not send a generic message. Mention why the school fits you and why your game may fit their roster needs. If the program is listed as recruiting your position, reference that in a professional way.

Division II Basketball Highlight Video Tips

Your highlight video is one of the most important tools in the recruiting process. Coaches need to see your skill level quickly, so your video should be easy to watch and focused on your best college-level actions.

A strong D2 recruiting highlight video should show:

Your position-specific skills
Game speed
Decision-making
Defense
Passing
Shooting or finishing ability
Athleticism
Body language
Effort plays
Plays against solid competition

Keep the video focused. Put your best clips first, avoid long intros, and make sure coaches can clearly identify you in every play.

Why Players Should Look Beyond Rankings

Division II rankings can be useful, but they should not control your entire recruiting strategy. A nationally ranked D2 program may not need your position. Another program that is not ranked may be the perfect fit because it needs your skill set, offers your major, has a strong coaching staff, and gives you a better opportunity to earn minutes.

Players should use rankings as one tool, not the whole plan.

A good recruiting strategy includes ranked programs, regional programs, academic fits, financial fits, and schools actively recruiting your type of player.

Life as a Division II Student-Athlete

Life as a Division II basketball player requires time management. Athletes must balance practices, games, travel, strength training, film sessions, classes, assignments, and personal responsibilities.

Many D2 programs provide academic support, tutoring, study hours, advising, career services, and mentorship. This support can help players stay on track academically while continuing to develop as athletes.

For many student-athletes, Division II offers a strong mix of competition, structure, opportunity, and balance.

Division II vs Division I Basketball

Division I is the highest level of NCAA basketball and usually includes larger athletic budgets, more national exposure, bigger arenas, and more media attention. Division II is still highly competitive, but it often offers a more balanced environment.

A player may choose Division II over Division I because of:

Better chance to play early
Strong academic fit
Better financial package
More personal coaching attention
Preferred location
Smaller campus environment
Better roster opportunity
Stronger long-term fit

The goal is not just to say you played at the highest level possible. The goal is to find the right program where you can grow, compete, and succeed.

Division II Basketball FAQs

Final Thoughts on Choosing a Division II Basketball Program

Choosing the right Division II basketball program is about more than finding a name on a list. Student-athletes should look for a school that fits their basketball ability, academic goals, financial situation, personality, and long-term future.

Use this D2 basketball colleges list as a research tool. Build your target list, study rosters, watch games, review academics, contact coaches, and focus on programs where you have a realistic opportunity to earn a spot.

For players still looking for opportunities, College Basketball Openings can help identify programs that may still be recruiting and allow athletes to target coaches more strategically.

Related Basketball Recruiting Guides

If you are researching NCAA Division II basketball colleges, these guides can help you compare other levels and build a smarter recruiting plan:

College Basketball Openings
View current college basketball recruiting opportunities for unsigned players, transfers, JUCO athletes, post-grad players, guards, wings, forwards, and bigs.

NCAA Division I Basketball Colleges List
Compare Division II programs with NCAA Division I basketball colleges by school, location, conference, and level.

NCAA Division III Basketball Colleges List
Research Division III basketball programs and understand how D3 schools can provide strong academics, competitive basketball, and another realistic college basketball pathway.

JUCO Basketball Colleges List
Research junior college basketball programs and understand how JUCO can help players develop, get recruited, and transfer to four-year schools.

NAIA Basketball Schools List
Explore NAIA basketball programs that may offer strong competition, scholarship opportunities, and a different path than NCAA programs.

College Basketball Recruiting Guide
Learn how to build your recruiting profile, contact coaches, send film, and create a smarter college basketball recruiting plan.

College Basketball Recruiting Hub
Start here to compare NCAA D1, D2, D3, NAIA, JUCO, and current college basketball openings in one place.

About College Basketball Openings

College Basketball Openings helps players, parents, coaches, and recruiting services research college basketball programs and find current recruiting opportunities. Since 2020, the platform has tracked college basketball openings, roster needs, and recruiting information across NCAA, NAIA, JUCO, USCAA, NCCAA, and post-grad levels.

This NCAA Division II basketball colleges list is designed to help athletes research D2 programs by school, location, conference, and level. Players can use this list to build a smarter recruiting plan, compare college options, and identify programs that may fit their athletic ability, academic profile, location preferences, and long-term goals.

For players still looking for a team, College Basketball Openings also provides current recruiting opportunities so athletes can target programs that may still need their position, class, and player type.