The University of Florida announced its full men’s basketball schedule for the 2026‑27 season, a slate that blends home‑court comforts with road tests against some of the nation’s most storied programs.
Key matchups to watch
The first home test arrives on November 13, 2026, when the Gators host the Merrimack Warriors at the O’Connell Center. Florida previously routed Merrimack 80‑45 in November 2025, a game in which sophomore forward Alex Condon posted a double‑double of 20 points and 11 rebounds.
The two programs also met in December 2023, when Florida secured a 77‑57 victory; guard Walter Clayton Jr. was the leading scorer with 26 points.
The season officially opens on November 2, 2026, in Tampa, where the Gators will take on in‑state rival Miami in a neutral‑site contest that promises a packed arena.
Later in the non‑conference stretch, Florida will travel to Las Vegas to compete in the Players Era Tournament, where a matchup against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish is slated.
A home game against the Duke Blue Devils is penciled in for December 1, 2026, adding another marquee opponent to the schedule.
Coach Todd Golden said the schedule reflects the program’s ambition to test itself early and build momentum heading into SEC play, noting that each opponent brings a different style and set of challenges.