Season Opener in Wisconsin Dells
Northern Michigan University’s women’s basketball program has officially released its 2026‑27 schedule, a 30‑game slate that blends 13 home contests with a rigorous non‑conference road map. The announcement comes as the Wildcats look to build on a 25‑8 record from the 2025‑26 season that culminated in an NCAA Tournament berth.
Head coach Casey Thousand, now in her fifth year at the helm, emphasized the intent to test the team early and sharpen its depth before GLIAC play. The schedule was designed to provide competitive matchups that will prepare the squad for the intensity of conference competition.
Opening the Season in Wisconsin Dells
The season will open with the Midwest Tip‑Off Challenge in Wisconsin Dells, where the Wildcats open against Central Missouri on Oct. 30 before facing Truman State and Minnesota State Mankato later that weekend. The team will return to Wisconsin Dells for two additional non‑conference games later in the month.
Conference Play and the Road Ahead
After the opening stretch, the Wildcats head to Minnesota for road games at St. Cloud State and Minnesota Duluth, then close November with a home matchup against Winona State. December brings a pair of road contests against GLIAC opponents Roosevelt University and Parkside before the squad travels to Ashland and Northwood for further non‑conference tests.
Conference play resumes in the new year with a road trip to Ferris State, followed by home games at Vandament Arena on Jan. 7 and Jan. 9 against Lake Superior State and Saginaw Valley State. The Wildcats will then embark on a series of away games at Purdue Northwest and Grand Valley State before returning home to host Ferris State and Davenport.
February features additional road trips to Saginaw Valley State and Lake Superior State, while NMU will host Grand Valley State and Purdue Northwest later in the month. The regular season will wind down with two consecutive home contests, setting the stage for the GLIAC Tournament beginning March 3, with semifinals on March 6 and the championship game on March 7.