A New Chapter Begins on New Year's Eve
Kennesaw State will open the 2026‑27 Conference USA men’s basketball season with a home game on New Year’s Eve, marking the start of its title defense.
The Owls are slated to play 18 conference matchups, nine at VyStar Arena and nine on the road, meeting each league opponent twice throughout the campaign.
Head coach Antoine Pettway, whose tenure has produced a 34‑10 home record, said the conference remains as competitive as ever, noting that every night presents a new challenge.
Three key contributors from last year’s championship squad — Kaden Rickard, Trey Simpson and Amir Taylor — return to bolster the lineup, joined by a group of talented freshmen and Division I transfers.
After the opening homestand, the team will hit the road for a two‑game swing through Texas and New Mexico, traveling to face Sam Houston and New Mexico State.
Kennesaw State will then return to VyStar Arena for contests against Delaware and longtime rival Liberty before closing January with road games at Missouri State and FIU.
February brings a second meeting with Jacksonville State in the rivalry series, followed by home games against New Mexico State and Sam Houston, setting the stage for a strong finish.
The regular season will wrap up with road trips to Middle Tennessee and Western Kentucky, after which the Owls will prepare for the 2027 Conference USA Basketball Championship in Huntsville, Alabama, scheduled for March 9‑13.
KSU finished the previous campaign by winning four of its final six games and capturing the tournament title with victories over Western Kentucky, Sam Houston and Louisiana Tech.
With a blend of experience and fresh talent, the Owls look poised to defend their crown as they navigate a demanding schedule that spans the nation.
Looking Ahead to March
The upcoming championship in Huntsville will be the culmination of a season defined by resilience, depth and the relentless pursuit of excellence.