The 1973–74 NCAA Division I men's basketball season began in November 1973, progressed through the regular season and conference tournaments, and concluded with the 1974 NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Tournament Championship Game on March 25, 1974, at the Greensboro Coliseum in Greensboro, North Carolina.

The North Carolina State Wolfpack won its first NCAA national championship with a 76–64 victory over the Marquette Warriors.

Holding or grabbing an opposing player away from the ball became fouls, as did illegal screens.

[6][7] A total of 81 college teams played as Division I independents.

[23] Penn finished with a 4–0 record in head-to-head competition among the Philadelphia Big 5.