When Does Kentucky Play Basketball Next? Next Game Date 2025

By Sarah Miller · March 12, 2050

Kentucky Wildcats men's basketball next plays on November 4, 2025, against Utah Valley in a home game at Rupp Arena. This marks the start of their highly anticipated 2025-26 regular season under head coach Mark Pope, following offseason roster changes and strong recruiting.

When Is Kentucky Basketball’s Next Game?

The University of Kentucky men's basketball team, one of college basketball’s most storied programs, returns to action on Monday, November 4, 2025. The Wildcats will host Utah Valley at Rupp Arena in Lexington, KY, tipping off at 7:00 PM ET. This game is part of the non-conference portion of the 2025-26 schedule and serves as the official start of the new season under second-year head coach Mark Pope.

Key Details of the Upcoming Game

Date: November 4, 2025 (Monday)
Opponent: Utah Valley Wolverines
Location: Rupp Arena, Lexington, KY
Tip-off Time: 7:00 PM Eastern Time
Broadcast: SEC Network
Ticket Availability: On sale now via UK Athletics website

2025-26 Kentucky Basketball Full Schedule Preview

The Wildcats’ 2025-26 campaign features a mix of high-profile non-conference matchups and the always-challenging Southeastern Conference (SEC) slate. After opening against Utah Valley, Kentucky will participate in the Bluegrass Showcase and face several ranked opponents early, setting the stage for NCAA Tournament positioning.

Date	Opponent	Location	Time (ET)	Broadcast
Nov 4, 2025	Utah Valley	Home	7:00 PM	SECN
Nov 8, 2025	Louisville	Neutral (KFC Yum! Center)	9:00 PM	ESPN
Nov 12, 2025	Duquesne	Home	7:00 PM	ESPNU
Nov 16, 2025	vs. Top 10 Team*	Neutral (Las Vegas)	TBD	ESPN
Dec 13, 2025	North Carolina	Home	12:00 PM	ESPN
Jan 10, 2026	Alabama	Away	6:00 PM	SECN
Feb 14, 2026	Tennessee	Home	8:00 PM	ESPN2
Mar 8, 2026	Florida	Home	4:00 PM	SECN

Table data source:1, 2

The schedule emphasizes early-season strength with marquee matchups against Louisville and a top-10 program in Las Vegas, boosting Kentucky’s chances for a favorable NCAA Tournament seed. Home games at Rupp Arena remain among the toughest environments in college basketball, with average attendance exceeding 20,000 per game in recent seasons.

How to Watch Kentucky Basketball Games

Fans can watch Kentucky Wildcats games through multiple platforms:

TV Broadcasts: Most games air on ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, or SEC Network.
Streaming: Available via ESPN+, fuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, and Sling TV.
Radio: UK Sports Network affiliates and the UKGameday app carry live audio.
Mobile Access: The UK Athletics app provides real-time updates and streaming links.

Roster and Coaching Outlook for 2025-26

Under head coach Mark Pope, who took over in 2024, Kentucky has embraced a culture of defensive intensity and player development. The 2025-26 roster includes key returning players like Hamidou Diallo II and top recruits from the 2025 class, including five-star guard Jalen Harrell.

Projected Starting Lineup (November 2025)

PG: Jalen Harrell (Fr)
SG: Antonio Reeves (Jr)
SF: Chris Livingston (Jr)
PF: Aaron Bradshaw (So)
C: Adou Thiero (Sr)

Pope’s system prioritizes transition offense and rim protection, with an emphasis on NBA draft preparation. Several Wildcats are projected as 2026 NBA Draft prospects.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kentucky Basketball

When does Kentucky basketball play next in 2025?

Kentucky’s next game is on November 4, 2025, at 7:00 PM ET against Utah Valley at Rupp Arena in Lexington.

Where can I watch Kentucky Wildcats basketball games?

Most games are broadcast on ESPN networks or SEC Network. You can stream them via ESPN+, fuboTV, or Hulu + Live TV. Radio coverage is available on the UK Sports Network.

Who is coaching Kentucky basketball in 2025?

Mark Pope is the head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats men’s basketball team entering his second season in 2025-26.

What channel is Kentucky basketball on tonight?

If Kentucky is playing tonight, check ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, or SEC Network. For real-time updates, visit ukathletics.com or use the UK Athletics app.

Is Kentucky basketball ranked for the 2025-26 season?

As of October 2025, Kentucky is projected to be ranked in the preseason Top 10 by major polls, reflecting strong recruiting and roster continuity under Coach Pope.

How can I buy Kentucky basketball tickets?

Tickets are available through the official UK Athletics website (ukathletics.com), Ticketmaster, or authorized resellers like SeatGeek. Season tickets typically sell out quickly.

What time does Kentucky basketball practice?

Practice times are not publicly scheduled but generally occur in the morning or early afternoon at the Joe Craft Center. Media access is limited during closed sessions.