Different Levels of Basketball Teams

Basketball is played around the world at different levels. A pickup game can be found in most places, but for a more-organized game, teams are put together at different levels. Whether the basketball player is playing for fun or is getting paid millions of dollars to compete, everyone can find a team that suits their skill level.

  1. High School

    • Basketball players in high school can play in different types of leagues. Most high schools have basketball teams. Players can try out and play in a league against other teams where they normally compete for a conference and state championship. High schools generally have teams for freshmen, sophomores, a junior-varsity team and a varsity team. Players can also play in a private recreational league. These leagues vary in difficulty. Some club teams are more relaxed and meant for fun. Leagues like the Amateur Athletic Union, or AAU, are very competitive and feature some of the best high school basketball players in the country. These teams often travel and require a tryout to make the team.

    College

    • Many colleges and universities have basketball teams at the Division I, Division II, Division III or National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics level. Division I features the toughest competition, where teams travel across the country and compete for a national championship. Many universities also feature recreational leagues and club teams. Club teams offer no scholarships, but can be highly competitive. Recreational leagues at the school allow students to play each other in an organized fashion.

    Professional

    • Professional basketball leagues exist around the world. The National Basketball Association includes some of the best players in the world, and they compete for a world championship. These players are the best, and are drafted or signed to contracts out of college. Other leagues exist around the world. For the vast majority of people who do not play professional basketball, but graduated from college, there are adult leagues around the world. These leagues can be relaxed or very competitive. Generally, all one needs to do is sign up to play.