LEXINGTON, KY. – Kentucky basketball fans have much to look forward to as the Wildcats announced five exciting nonconference matchups for the upcoming 2025-26 season. Head coach Mark Pope revealed that all games will be hosted at Rupp Arena, including a much-anticipated showdown against Indiana on December 13, reigniting a storied rivalry.
The action kicks off with Loyola University Maryland on November 21. This marks the second meeting between the Wildcats and the Ramblers, with Kentucky holding an 87-63 victory from their previous encounter in 2011. On November 26, Kentucky will face Tennessee Tech, coached by Kentucky Athletics Hall of Famer John Pelphrey. The Wildcats are undefeated in five matchups against Tennessee Tech, with their last meeting dating back to the 2007-08 season.
December will bring even more excitement to Rupp Arena, beginning with a first-ever meeting against North Carolina Central on December 9. Then, border rival Indiana will visit on December 13, marking their first game in Lexington since the 2010-11 season. Kentucky leads the all-time series against the Hoosiers 32-25, though the two teams haven’t met since the 2016 NCAA Tournament. The nonconference slate concludes on December 23 with an instate matchup against Bellarmine, a rematch of their 2022 contest, which Kentucky won 60-41.
This schedule serves as a strong test for the Wildcats, who are coming off a successful 2024-25 campaign that included a Sweet 16 appearance and an NCAA-record-tying eight victories over AP Top 15 opponents. Returning stars Collin Chandler, Brandon Garrison, and Trent Noah will anchor the team. Chandler ended last season with a stellar 52.2% three-point shooting performance over his final six games. Garrison contributed consistent scoring and efficiency, while Noah had a breakout performance in a key upset of Tennessee.
The Wildcats will also benefit from a top-ranked transfer class, featuring standout players like Denzel Aberdeen, Mouhamed Dioubate, Jaland Lowe, and National Defensive Player of the Year finalist Jayden Quaintance. The incoming freshman class includes four highly-touted recruits, headlined by Kentucky Mr. Basketball Malachi Moreno and European standout Andrija Jelavić.
Season tickets for this highly anticipated season are in high demand, with limited options available. Fans can join the lottery for upper-level tickets or explore premium options through the K Fund Office.
As the Wildcats continue to finalize their schedule, Big Blue Nation eagerly awaits another thrilling season of Kentucky basketball, filled with marquee matchups and star-studded performances.
