As we celebrate the rich heritage and contributions of Native American student-athletes, the NCAA proudly recognizes their significant impact on college sports. These student-athletes not only excel in their respective sports but also represent a growing segment of the NCAA community, with a remarkable 35% increase in participation over the past decade.
- Growth in participation: In 2024-25, there were 2,364 Native American student-athletes across all NCAA divisions, a 35% increase (610 athletes) from 2014-15. This more than doubles the overall NCAA student-athlete growth of 17% during the same period.
- Divisional breakdown of Native American student-athletes in 2024-25:
- Division I: 686.
- Division II: 916.
- Division III: 762.
- Men's sports with the most Native American student-athletes in 2024-25:
- Football: 417.
- Baseball: 168.
- Outdoor track and field: 161.
- Women's sports with the most Native American student-athletes in 2024-25:
- Softball: 144.
- Outdoor track and field: 124.
- Indoor track and field: 114.
- Men's sports with the highest percentage of Native American student-athletes in 2024-25:
- Wrestling: 0.62% (55 student-athletes).
- Lacrosse: 0.53% (89).
- Cross country: 0.50% (77).
- Football: 0.50% (417).
- Women's sports with the highest percentage of Native American student-athletes in 2024-25:
- Ice hockey: 0.78% (24 student-athletes).
- Basketball: 0.67% (112).
- Wrestling: 0.67% (11).
Data note: All data referring to Native American student-athletes includes American Indian/Alaska Native student-athletes, per NCAA demographics research reported by each NCAA school.
