Understanding NCAA Basketball, College Recruitment, and Factors that Influence College Decisions for Basketball Student-Athletes

Abstract

Using five semi-structured interviews, this study sought to better understand the lived experiences and college decision process for NCAA Division I basketball student-athletes. The findings from a thematic analysis retrieved the themes of Family & Brotherhood, Commodification & Compensation, Student-Athlete Lived Experiences and Challenges, and Student-Athlete Programs and Services. Conclusively, the thesis project illuminated a need to better understand what student-athletes go through on-and-off the court and how stakeholders involved in the student-athletes college choice can be better educated about the inner workings of college basketball and basketball recruiting. Limitations, strengths, and future directions for research are discussed.