Is it challenging to secure a D2 basketball scholarship?

I'm a junior in high school and really want to continue playing basketball in college. I'm aware that D2 schools can offer athletic scholarships, but I'm curious about how competitive it is to actually earn one. How do the requirements compare to D1 schools? What do I need to do to increase my chances of getting noticed by coaches? Any advice or personal stories would be greatly appreciated!

Securing a D2 basketball scholarship can indeed be challenging – while these programs may not be as competitive as D1, they’re still quite selective. The talent pool is vast, as many athletes share the same dream of playing college basketball on scholarship.

Comparing D1 vs D2, D1 players are often nationally ranked and are usually the top players in their state or region. While D2 schools may not have quite this level of competition, they’re still looking for high-performing athletes who demonstrate exceptional skill and dedication. This often includes strong stats from your high school games and outstanding performances in high-pressure situations.

To increase your chances of securing a scholarship, you'll want to take proactive steps:

1. Keep your grades up: While your athletic abilities are key, college coaches are also looking for student-athletes who excel academically.

2. Improve your skills: Use the off-season to refine your skills, focusing on any deficits in your game. Observing high-level basketball and getting extra coaching can also prove beneficial.

3. Networking: Attend relevant showcases, camps, and tournaments where college scouts and coaches are likely to be present. These events are prime opportunities to get noticed.

4. Highlight videos: Gather footage of your games and create a highlight reel to showcase your skills. Make sure to capture different elements of your game – shooting, defense, rebounding, playmaking, and so on.

5. Outreaching: Do some research to identify D2 schools that you're interested in and reach out to their coaching staff. Connect with them through email or calls and express your interest in their program. Share your basketball resume and highlight video with them.

6. Use your current coach: Make sure your high school or club coach is involved in the process. They can provide guidance, reach out to college coaches on your behalf, and give an honest evaluation of your skills.

Hope this helps and best of luck in your basketball journey!