What are Manager Games?

For decades, prior to college basketball games, members of opposing teams’ staff have gathered for exhibition games the day before the real game. Dubbed an “underground” basketball league, Manager Games have been played in dark, empty gymnasiums for nothing but bragging rights, until recently. Starting with the Big Ten Conference, records were first kept in the 2014-15 season. The following season, the first Manager Games Postseason Tournament was born and took place at the Final Four Fan Fest.

Gameplay

Games are typically played in two 20-minute running-clock halves with stoppage in the last two minutes of each half. If there is a shot clock available, it is sometimes incorporated. Though named Manages Games, participation is open to any member of the basketball staff. Training staff, strength coaches, assistant coaches, graduate assistants, academic coordinators, equipment managers, and many more have participated.

How does the Manager Games Postseason work?

Throughout the season, teams report game scores to Manages Games and, using Faktor, rankings are periodically released. The season culminates with the Postseason Tournament where 64 selected teams advance through both fan votes and competition. While the games are competitive, they are intended to celebrate student managers and their hard work and dedication, while also allowing them to enjoy some relaxation and competition themselves. Up to eight teams qualify for the Manager Games National Championship in conjunction with the NCAA Final Four Fan Fest in each season’s host city. The 64-team field is announced annually in March.

More than a league

Student managers are a valuable asset to college basketball teams across the country. They volunteer their time to assist student-athletes, coaches, and schools in positions that are often unpaid. They assist in practices, the video room, on gameday, and in many other aspects of the day-to-day operation of college basketball programs. The work ethic learned while serving as a student manager helps graduates become successful in jobs in both professional and intercollegiate athletics, as well as positions outside sports. The student manager position has become one of the best internships in intercollegiate athletics.