Division 2 basketball offers a competitive platform for student-athletes seeking both academic and athletic excellence. With a lower division than Division 1, it provides a more intimate and focused environment while maintaining a high level of play. If you’re an aspiring basketball player looking for a well-rounded college experience, consider these top Division 2 basketball schools:
1. Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Location: Indiana, Pennsylvania
Enrollment: 14,000+
Conference: Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC)
Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) boasts a long-standing tradition of basketball success. The Crimson Hawks have won six PSAC championships, made 20 NCAA Tournament appearances, and reached the Division II Elite Eight four times. With a state-of-the-art athletic complex and dedicated coaching staff, IUP provides student-athletes with the facilities and support they need to excel on and off the court.
2. University of North Carolina at Pembroke
Location: Pembroke, North Carolina
Enrollment: 3,000+
Conference: Conference Carolinas
The University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNCP) has emerged as a powerhouse in Division II basketball. The Braves have won three national championships in the past decade, including back-to-back titles in 2018 and 2019. Led by a highly-skilled coaching staff, UNCP offers a fast-paced, offensive-oriented style of play that has consistently produced top-ranked athletes.
3. West Texas A&M University
Location: Canyon, Texas
Enrollment: 10,000+
Conference: Lone Star Conference
West Texas A&M University (WTAMU) has a rich history of basketball excellence in the Lone Star Conference. The Buffaloes have won six conference titles, made 14 NCAA Tournament appearances, and reached the Division II Elite Eight five times. WTAMU boasts a passionate fan base and a player development program that fosters both individual and team success.
4. Mercyhurst University
Location: Erie, Pennsylvania
Enrollment: 4,000+
Conference: Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC)
Mercyhurst University has quickly established itself as a force in Division II basketball. The Lakers have won five PSAC championships in the past eight years and have been a consistent contender for NCAA Tournament success. Mercyhurst prides itself on its academic rigor, athletic facilities, and commitment to student-athlete well-being.
5. University of Southern Indiana
Location: Evansville, Indiana
Enrollment: 11,000+
Conference: Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC)
The University of Southern Indiana (USI) has been a dominant force in the GLVC. The Screaming Eagles have won 13 conference championships, made 15 NCAA Tournament appearances, and reached the Division II Elite Eight twice. USI offers a highly competitive academic and athletic environment, with a strong focus on student-athlete support and development.
6. University of Wisconsin-Parkside
Location: Kenosha, Wisconsin
Enrollment: 4,000+
Conference: Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC)
The University of Wisconsin-Parkside (UWP) has emerged as a rising star in Division II basketball. The Rangers have won four GLVC championships in the past decade and have been a regular contender in the NCAA Tournament. UWP emphasizes a high-energy, team-oriented approach, with a reputation for developing skilled and versatile players.
7. Queens University of Charlotte
Location: Charlotte, North Carolina
Enrollment: 6,000+
Conference: South Atlantic Conference (SAC)
Queens University of Charlotte has made a significant impact on Division II basketball. The Royals have won two national championships in the past five years, establishing themselves as one of the elite programs in the nation. Queens prides itself on its athletic excellence, academic rigor, and commitment to student-athlete success.
8. Belmont Abbey College
Location: Belmont, North Carolina
Enrollment: 2,000+
Conference: Conference Carolinas
Belmont Abbey College has consistently been a contender in Conference Carolinas. The Crusaders have won three conference championships in the past decade and have made four NCAA Tournament appearances. Belmont Abbey emphasizes a strong sense of community, with a focus on academic achievement and personal growth.
Table 1: Top Division 2 Basketball Programs
| School | Conference | Championships | NCAA Tournament Appearances |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indiana University of Pennsylvania | PSAC | 6 | 20 |
| University of North Carolina at Pembroke | Conference Carolinas | 3 | 7 |
| West Texas A&M University | Lone Star Conference | 6 | 14 |
| Mercyhurst University | PSAC | 5 | 5 |
| University of Southern Indiana | GLVC | 13 | 15 |
Table 2: School Locations and Conference Affiliations
| School | Location | Conference |
|---|---|---|
| Indiana University of Pennsylvania | Indiana, Pennsylvania | PSAC |
| University of North Carolina at Pembroke | Pembroke, North Carolina | Conference Carolinas |
| West Texas A&M University | Canyon, Texas | Lone Star Conference |
| Mercyhurst University | Erie, Pennsylvania | PSAC |
| University of Southern Indiana | Evansville, Indiana | GLVC |
| University of Wisconsin-Parkside | Kenosha, Wisconsin | GLVC |
| Queens University of Charlotte | Charlotte, North Carolina | SAC |
| Belmont Abbey College | Belmont, North Carolina | Conference Carolinas |
Table 3: Coaching Staff Highlights
| School | Head Coach | Notable Accomplishments |
|---|---|---|
| Indiana University of Pennsylvania | Joe Lombardi | 3 PSAC Championships, 3 NCAA Tournament Elite Eight appearances |
| University of North Carolina at Pembroke | Ben Miller | 3 National Championships, 4 Conference Carolinas Championships |
| West Texas A&M University | Tom Penders | 6 Lone Star Conference Championships, 5 NCAA Tournament Elite Eight appearances |
| Mercyhurst University | Michael Fabbiani | 5 PSAC Championships, 2 NCAA Tournament appearances |
| University of Southern Indiana | Stan Gouard | 13 GLVC Championships, 2 NCAA Tournament Elite Eight appearances |
Table 4: Facilities and Resources
| School | Athletic Complex | Student-Athlete Support |
|---|---|---|
| Indiana University of Pennsylvania | Kovalchick Complex | Academic Success Center, Strength and Conditioning Center |
| University of North Carolina at Pembroke | English E. Jones Athletic Center | Student-Athlete Success Program, Sports Medicine Center |
| West Texas A&M University | First United Bank Center | Student-Athlete Academic Services, Sports Performance Center |
| Mercyhurst University | Mercyhurst Athletic Center | Academic Resource Center, Sports Medicine Center |
| University of Southern Indiana | Screaming Eagles Arena | Athletic Success Program, Sports Medicine Center |
Tips for Aspiring Division 2 Basketball Players
- Excel academically: Maintain strong grades to meet NCAA eligibility requirements.
- Develop your skills: Practice consistently and seek out opportunities to improve your ball-handling, shooting, and defensive abilities.
- Join a travel or AAU team: Gain experience playing at a competitive level against top talent.
- Research potential schools: Explore Division 2 programs that align with your academic and athletic goals.
- Reach out to coaches: Contact the coaching staff of your target schools to express your interest and highlight your qualifications.
- Attend summer camps: Showcase your abilities at college basketball camps and learn from experienced coaches.
- Prepare your application: Craft a strong application packet that includes your transcripts, athletic resume, and a well-written personal statement.
- Stay motivated: Remember that the journey to Division 2 basketball is challenging but rewarding. Stay focused and never give up on your dreams.