The University of Kentucky men’s basketball team has unveiled a compelling non-conference schedule for the 2025–26 season, featuring a blend of historic rivalries, marquee matchups, and intriguing new opponents. Under the leadership of head coach Mark Pope, the Wildcats aim to challenge themselves early and often, preparing for a rigorous Southeastern Conference (SEC) slate and a deep postseason run.
A highlight of the upcoming season is the revival of the storied Kentucky-Indiana rivalry. The Wildcats will host the Hoosiers on December 13 at Rupp Arena, marking Indiana’s first visit to Lexington since the 2010–11 season. This game is part of a renewed series that will see the teams face off annually through 2028, alternating between Lexington, Indianapolis, and Bloomington .
Kentucky will also continue its series with Gonzaga, facing the Bulldogs on December 5 at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. This neutral-site game is the fourth installment in a six-year series between the programs, which is currently tied 2–2. The Wildcats secured a thrilling 90–89 overtime victory in their most recent meeting in Seattle .
Another significant matchup is against Michigan State on November 18 at Madison Square Garden as part of the Champions Classic. This annual event features four of college basketball’s premier programs, and the Wildcats will look to improve upon their 2–2 record against the Spartans in this showcase .
Kentucky’s non-conference home schedule includes several notable games. On November 21, the Wildcats will host Loyola University Maryland, a team they last faced during the 2011–12 season. Five days later, on November 26, Kentucky welcomes Tennessee Tech, led by former Wildcat and Kentucky Athletics Hall of Famer John Pelphrey. The Wildcats hold a 5–0 all-time record against Tennessee Tech .
December 9 brings a first-ever meeting with North Carolina Central University (NC Central) to Rupp Arena. The Eagles, a Division I program since 2011, have made four NCAA Tournament appearances and finished the previous season with a 14–19 record .
On December 23, Kentucky will face in-state opponent Bellarmine University. This marks the second meeting between the programs, with the Wildcats winning the initial matchup 60–41 during the 2022–23 season. Bellarmine enters a new era under head coach Doug Davenport, following the retirement of his father, Scott Davenport .
Additional Noteworthy Matchups
The Wildcats’ non-conference schedule also features a road game against archrival Louisville on November 11 at the KFC Yum! Center. This early-season clash marks only the third time the teams have met in November, adding intensity to an already fierce rivalry .
On December 20, Kentucky will participate in the CBS Sports Classic, facing St. John’s at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. This neutral-site game adds another high-caliber opponent to the Wildcats’ challenging schedule .
Additionally, Kentucky is slated to participate in the SEC/ACC Challenge, with details regarding the opponent and date to be announced. This event pits teams from the SEC against those from the Atlantic Coast Conference, providing another opportunity for the Wildcats to test themselves against top-tier competition .
Conclusion
Kentucky’s 2025–26 non-conference schedule reflects a commitment to facing formidable opponents and reigniting historic rivalries. With a mix of home games, neutral-site contests, and road challenges, the Wildcats are poised to build a strong résumé ahead of SEC play. Coach Mark Pope’s strategic scheduling aims to prepare his team for the demands of the season and position Kentucky as a contender on the national stage.
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