Kentucky Adds Five More Non-Conference Games to 2025-26 Schedule
Kentucky’s 2025-26 non-conference schedule is shaping up to be one of the toughest in college basketball, with several high-profile matchups on the horizon. On Friday, the Wildcats announced the addition of five more games, all of which will be played at Rupp Arena.
The Wildcats will host Loyola University Maryland on November 21, followed by a matchup with former Kentucky player John Pelphrey and his Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles on November 26. Pelphrey, who played at Kentucky under coaches Eddie Sutton and Rick Pitino, will be returning to Lexington for the game. In addition, Kentucky revealed games against North Carolina Central on December 9, Indiana on December 13, and Bellarmine on December 23.
The showdown with Indiana is especially significant, as it kicks off a four-year series between the two teams. The series will continue with a game at Lucas Oil Stadium on December 26, 2026, before returning to Rupp Arena on December 18, 2027, and concluding at Assembly Hall on December 16, 2028. This will mark Kentucky’s first visit to Bloomington since the 2011-12 season.
In addition to these newly announced games, Kentucky’s non-conference slate already includes high-profile matchups against Louisville (November 11), Michigan State (November 18), Gonzaga (December 5), and St. John’s (December 20). The Wildcats are also awaiting the announcement of their SEC/ACC Challenge opponent.
With these additions, Kentucky’s non-conference schedule is shaping up to be a rigorous test, setting the stage for a challenging season before they begin conference play.
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