The 1949–50 NCAA men's basketball season began in December 1949, progressed through the regular season and conference tournaments, and concluded with the 1950 NCAA basketball tournament championship game on March 28, 1950, at Madison Square Garden in New York, New York.
The City College of New York Beavers won their first NCAA national championship with a 71–68 victory over the Bradley Braves.
A total of 46 college teams played as major independents.
In 1949–50, Lafayatte and Rutgers finished tied for the best record in games played between the three members.
A number of teams changed coaches during the season and after it ended.