USA Basketball Scholarship: How to Study and Play Basketball in America

1.1 Early Years

The first official college-level basketball game took place in 1895 between the University of Chicago and the University of Iowa. In 1901, the first intercollegiate conference was established, the Western Conference, later known as the Big Ten Conference. In 1906, the first national championship was organized by the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU), which dominated college basketball until 1936.

In 1939, the first NCAA tournament was held, with eight teams competing for the title. The tournament was won by Oregon, defeating Ohio State 46-33. The tournament grew into an annual event that increasingly attracted the attention of fans and media.

1.2 Growth and Professionalization

After World War II, college basketball increased in popularity and quality. New stars emerged, such as Bill Russell, Wilt Chamberlain, Oscar Robertson, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who later also made a name for themselves in the NBA. New competitions and conferences were formed, such as the National Invitation Tournament (NIT), the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), and the Southeastern Conference (SEC).

In 1957, one of the most memorable games in college basketball history took place when North Carolina Tar Heels defeated Kansas Jayhawks 54-53 after three overtimes. The game is considered a turning point in college basketball, showcasing how exciting and dramatic the game could be.

Another historic game occurred in 1966 when Texas Western Miners defeated Kentucky Wildcats 72-65. The game was groundbreaking because Texas Western was the first team to consist entirely of black players, while Kentucky was entirely white. The game is seen as a symbol of the civil rights struggle and integration in America.

In 1979, the first live broadcast NCAA tournament took place, with a record number of viewers. The final was between Michigan State Spartans and Indiana State Sycamores, led by future NBA legends Magic Johnson and Larry Bird, respectively. Michigan State won the game 75-64 and is considered one of the best finals ever.

In the 80s and 90s, college basketball continued to grow and evolve, with new rules, styles, and strategies. New rivalries emerged, such as Duke vs North Carolina, Georgetown vs Syracuse, and UCLA vs Arizona. There were also new stars, like Michael Jordan, Patrick Ewing, Shaquille O’Neal, and Tim Duncan, who elevated college basketball to a higher level.

2.1 Important Competitions and Conferences

2.2 Top Programs and Prestigious Teams

College basketball features many top programs and prestigious teams, distinguished by their history, tradition, success, and influence. Some of these programs are:

These programs are just a few examples of the many excellent teams that enrich college basketball. Every year new challengers and surprises make the game exciting and unpredictable.

3.1 The Path to the NBA

To be eligible for the NBA, a player must be at least 19 years old and have graduated from high school at least one year prior. This means that most players aspiring to reach the NBA first go to college and play for at least one year. This is also known as the one-and-done rule because many players enter the NBA draft after just one year of college.

The NBA draft is an annual event where the 30 NBA teams take turns selecting a player from a pool of available players. The draft consists of two rounds, with each team having one pick per round. The order of picks is determined through a lottery for teams that did not make the playoffs the previous season and by reverse ranking for the playoff teams.

The draft is a significant moment for players because it determines which team holds their rights and how much money they can earn. Players chosen in the first round receive a guaranteed contract for at least two years, while those selected in the second round have no guarantees. Players who are not chosen can try to secure a contract through free agency or by joining the G League, the NBA's development league.

However, the draft is not a guarantee of success in the NBA. Many highly drafted players do not meet expectations or suffer injuries. On the other hand, there are also many players who are drafted low or not at all but still excel in the NBA. A well-known example is Giannis Antetokounmpo, who was selected 15th overall in 2013 and was named the NBA MVP and champion in 2021.

3.2 Other Professional Opportunities

Not all players participating in college basketball aim to go to the NBA. Some players choose to complete their academic degrees and pursue other careers. Others opt to play professional basketball in other countries or leagues.

There are many professional basketball leagues around the world, offering varying levels of quality, salary, and lifestyle. Some of these leagues include:

These leagues are just a few examples of the many opportunities available to professional basketball players outside of the NBA. Many players enjoy living and playing in different cultures while continuing to pursue their passion for the game.

4.1 Foreign Players in College Basketball

These players are just a few examples of the many foreign players who have excelled in college basketball. Each year, new talents emerge, enriching the game.

4.2 American Players Abroad

Not only do foreign players come to America to study and play basketball, but American players also go abroad for the same reasons. Some American players choose to skip or cut short their high school or college careers to play professionally in other countries or leagues.

The reasons for this choice can vary, but some include:

American players going abroad have different experiences and outcomes. Some succeed in realizing their NBA dream, while others enjoy a long and successful career. Some adapt well to their new surroundings, while others struggle with language, food, or lifestyle.

Some examples of American players who have gone abroad include:

These players are just a few examples of the many American players who have chosen an alternative path to professional basketball. Every year, new adventurers globalize the game.

5.1 The Importance of Scholarships

A sports scholarship is financial support provided by a university to a student-athlete to combine studies and sports. It can cover the costs of tuition, books, housing, meals, and other expenses. Additionally, it may offer benefits such as academic tutoring, medical care, training facilities, and equipment.

Obtaining a sports scholarship is competitive, with many factors playing a role in the awarding process, including academic achievements, athletic performance, personality, motivation, leadership, and adaptability. Therefore, it's essential to prepare well and distinguish yourself from the competition.

5.2 How Sport Scholarships America Can Help

Want to explore scholarship opportunities and achieve your athletic and academic goals? View the full range of services offered by Sport Scholarships America and schedule a consultation today.