Navigating the New NCAA Roster Limits: What Bubble Recruits Need to Know
Dear Coach Bryant,
A friend of our son’s recently returned from a basketball camp at State U, where the director informed all the attendees that they wouldn’t be bringing in any 2025 recruits due to the new roster limits. He explained that once this year’s seniors graduate, their roster size would hit the cap of 15, leaving no room for a freshman class. This news has made me concerned about my son’s recruiting prospects. We were hoping he might secure a walk-on spot at a mid-major D1 program, at the very least. Is it even possible to be a walk-on with these new roster limits? Would it make more sense for our son to consider taking a gap year to let the dust settle from this new regulation?
Worried in Williamsburg
Dear Worried,
The outcome of the House v. NCAA settlement is indeed causing a lot of uncertainty for student-athletes and their families. It’s important to understand that an athletic program must opt into the revenue-sharing plan for the new roster limits to apply. If a school chooses to opt in (which most of the Power 4 schools will, along with some mid-majors), then men’s basketball teams will be restricted to a roster of no more than 15 players, including walk-ons. Other sports will have adjustments to their rosters as well. Given this shift, here are some key points to consider:
ASK COACHES DIRECTLY ABOUT ROSTER SIZE
Worrying without clarity won’t help your son understand his true prospects. Encourage him to ask Division I coaches directly about their institution’s plans regarding the new regulations. Understanding where he stands with these coaches will provide a clearer picture of his opportunities. If a coach can’t provide a straightforward answer, that might be a sign to explore other opportunities.
EXPLORE OTHER OPTIONS SOON
Not every program will opt into the revenue-sharing plan, which means some schools will still be able to take more than 15 players, sticking with the old head-count system of 13 scholarships for men’s basketball and as many walk-ons as they desire. These programs might offer your son the chance to walk on or even earn a scholarship. If you haven’t already, start researching and reaching out to other programs now.
HOPE IS NOT A STRATEGY
While it might be tempting to wait and see how the new regulations shake out, I rarely encourage taking a gap year. There’s no solid evidence to suggest that the recruiting climate or opportunities will improve in a year’s time. Instead, it’s better to explore the options currently available to your son and make an informed decision based on what’s in front of him now.
CHOOSE A SCHOOL with A STRONG OPPORTUNITY TO PLAY
Ultimately, your son should aim to attend a school where he has a strong opportunity to play and develop, regardless of the roster size. The rule change could turn out to be a blessing in disguise, guiding him toward a program that truly values his contribution and offers him the best chance to succeed both on and off the court.
The Reality
The new NCAA roster limits are undoubtedly raising many questions, but the best approach is to stay informed and proactive. By asking the right questions, exploring all options, and focusing on where your son can thrive, you’ll set him up for success in the next chapter of his athletic and academic journey.
Best of luck,
Coach Bryant
