The 1961–62 NCAA University Division men's basketball season began in December 1961, progressed through the regular season and conference tournaments, and concluded with the 1962 NCAA University Division basketball tournament championship game on March 24, 1962, at Freedom Hall in Louisville, Kentucky.
The Cincinnati Bearcats won their second NCAA national championship with a 71–59 victory over the Ohio State Buckeyes.
[5][6] A total of 48 college teams played as University Division independents.
[18] Villanova finished with a 4–0 record in head-to-head competition among the Philadelphia Big 5.
A number of teams changed coaches during the season and after it ended.