Indiana University is set to open its 2026‑27 non‑conference slate with a much‑anticipated home contest against Missouri on Friday, December 18, inside the iconic Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall in Bloomington. The matchup marks the third high‑major opponent the Hoosiers have scheduled outside Big Ten play, underscoring the program’s ambition to test itself against top talent before conference action begins.
A ambitious non‑conference agenda
The schedule also includes a November 9 showdown with Syracuse at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, followed by a November 20 clash with Kentucky at Lucas Oil Stadium, also in the capital city. Adding to the excitement, Indiana will host an exhibition game against North Carolina on October 18 at the same Indianapolis venue, giving fans an early glimpse of the new-look roster before the regular season even begins.
The Hoosiers’ previous campaign ended without a berth in the NCAA Tournament, finishing with an 18‑14 overall record and a 9‑11 mark in Big Ten play. Their NET ranking landed at No. 41, a position that the selection committee used to gauge tournament eligibility. Despite the disappointment, preseason projections have the team ranked No. 27 in Bart Torvik’s metrics, suggesting optimism among analysts.
A major factor behind the renewed hope is Indiana’s seven‑player transfer portal class, which 247Sports placed fourth nationally. Headliners include Aiden Sherrell, a power forward from Alabama who checks in as the No. 12 overall transfer and No. 5 power forward, and Markus Burton, a point guard transferred from Notre Dame, rated the No. 24 overall prospect and No. 6 point guard. Both bring elite skill sets that could instantly elevate the team’s competitiveness.
The incoming freshman cohort adds another layer of excitement, featuring four‑star wing Vaughn Karvala, versatile forward Trevor Manhertz, guard Prince‑Alexander Moody, and international center Clemens Sokolov from Germany. Alongside returning sophomore forward Trent Sisley, the blend of fresh talent and experienced players promises a dynamic style of play heading into the new season.