When Does Kentucky Basketball Play Next? 2025-26 Schedule

By Sarah Miller · May 25, 2047

The University of Kentucky men's basketball team resumes play on November 4, 2025, with a home game at Rupp Arena against Wright State. This marks the official start of their 2025-2026 NCAA Division I basketball season.

When Does the University of Kentucky Play Basketball Again?

The highly anticipated return of the University of Kentucky Wildcats men's basketball team is set for Monday, November 4, 2025. Fans can expect an energetic season opener against Wright State at Rupp Arena in Lexington, KY. As one of college basketball's most storied programs, Kentucky's schedule draws national attention each year.

Key Details About the Season Opener

Date: November 4, 2025 (Monday)
Opponent: Wright State Raiders
Venue: Rupp Arena, Lexington, KY
Tip-off Time: Scheduled for 7:00 PM ET
Broadcast: SEC Network
Ticket Availability: On sale now via UK Athletics official website

2025-2026 Regular Season Schedule Overview

The Wildcats' upcoming season features a mix of high-profile non-conference matchups and grueling Southeastern Conference (SEC) games. The schedule is designed to prepare the team for March Madness contention.

Notable Non-Conference Games

November 14, 2025: vs. Kansas (in Chicago, Champions Classic)
November 21–24, 2025: Players Era Festival (Las Vegas)
December 20, 2025: Home game vs. North Carolina (Rupp Arena)

SEC Conference Play Highlights

January 10, 2026: at Tennessee
February 1, 2026: vs. Alabama (Rupp Arena)
February 15, 2026: at Auburn
March 1, 2026: Senior Day vs. Florida

Date	Opponent	Location	Venue	Time (ET)	Broadcast
Nov 4, 2025	Wright State	Home	Rupp Arena	7:00 PM	SECN
Nov 14, 2025	Kansas	Neutral	United Center (Chicago)	9:00 PM	ESPN
Nov 22, 2025	TBD (Players Era Festival)	Neutral	Mizzen+Main Las Vegas Invitational	TBD	ESPN/ESPNU
Dec 20, 2025	North Carolina	Home	Rupp Arena	6:00 PM	ESPN
Jan 10, 2026	Tennessee	Away	Thompson-Boling Arena	4:00 PM	SECN+
Feb 1, 2026	Alabama	Home	Rupp Arena	12:00 PM	ESPN

Table data source:1, 2

The table above highlights key early-season and marquee matchups for the Wildcats. Non-conference games against elite programs like Kansas and North Carolina provide crucial resume-building opportunities for NCAA Tournament selection committees. Broadcast appearances on ESPN and SEC Network reflect Kentucky’s national profile and fan demand.

How to Watch or Attend Kentucky Basketball Games

Fans have multiple options to follow the Wildcats throughout the season:

Live Attendance: Tickets available through the official UK Athletics ticket office; premium seating and season packages often sell out quickly.
TV Coverage: Most games aired on ESPN networks or SEC Network family of channels.
Streaming: Available via ESPN+, SEC Network+, or authenticated access through providers like YouTube TV, Hulu Live, or DIRECTV STREAM.
Radio: UK Sports Network broadcasts all games statewide; flagship station WLAP 630 AM/94.7 FM.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kentucky Basketball

When does the University of Kentucky basketball season start in 2025?

The 2025-2026 University of Kentucky men's basketball season begins on November 4, 2025, with a home game against Wright State at Rupp Arena.

Where can I find the full Kentucky Wildcats basketball schedule?

The complete and official schedule is available on the University of Kentucky Athletics website at ukathletics.com/sports/mens-basketball/schedule. The NCAA’s official site also lists all scheduled games.

How can I buy tickets for Kentucky basketball games?

Tickets can be purchased through the UK Athletics Ticket Office online at ukathletics.com/tickets, by phone at 1-800-456-CATS, or in person at Rupp Arena. Be cautious of third-party resellers and verify authenticity.

What channel are Kentucky basketball games on?

Most games are broadcast on ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, or SEC Network. Regional SEC Network+ games may require authentication through a cable provider or streaming service. Check local listings weekly for updates.

Who is coaching the Kentucky basketball team in 2025?

As of the 2025-2026 season, Mark Pope is the head coach of the University of Kentucky men's basketball team, following his appointment in April 2024.

Is the Kentucky vs. Kansas game televised?

Yes, the November 14, 2025, matchup between Kentucky and Kansas in the Champions Classic will be nationally televised on ESPN, starting at 9:00 PM ET.

Does Kentucky have any neutral-site games in 2025?

Yes, Kentucky plays in two major neutral-site events: the Champions Classic in Chicago (vs. Kansas) on November 14 and the Players Era Festival in Las Vegas during Thanksgiving week.