The 1986–87 NCAA Division I men's basketball season began in November 1986 and ended with the Final Four in New Orleans on March 30, 1987.

Beginning in 1986–87, the following rules changes were implemented:[2] The top 20 from the AP Poll during the pre-season.

[3] A total of 17 college teams played as Division I independents.

[32] Temple 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.