The 1972–73 NCAA University Division men's basketball season began in November 1972, progressed through the regular season and conference tournaments, and concluded with the 1973 NCAA University Division basketball tournament championship game on March 26, 1973, at St. Louis Arena in St. Louis, Missouri.

The UCLA Bruins won their ninth NCAA national championship with an 87–66 victory over the Memphis State Tigers.

[6][7] A total of 72 college teams played as University Division independents.

[22] Penn 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.