Answer: WALKONS

"Walk-ons" refers to athletes who join a sports team without receiving a scholarship or any form of financial aid. These individuals often try out for the team and make it based on their skills and abilities, rather than receiving a scholarship like other members of the team who may have had recruitment offers or financial assistance. Walk-ons typically cover their own expenses related to participating in the sport, such as tuition, fees, and equipment.

Note: The provided meaning of the answer is for the latest New York Times crossword puzzle clue: Many non-scholarship athletes. Explanations are generated by AI and may be inaccurate.