Indiana University’s men’s basketball program is putting the finishing touches on its 2026‑27 schedule, a plan that reflects both the program’s ambition and the new NCAA framework that expands the regular season to 32 games.
At the core of the non‑conference slate are three guarantee games against Eastern Illinois, Bellarmine and Bowling Green, matchups that give the new coaching staff a chance to test fresh talent early in the year.
A neutral‑site contest against Syracuse is set for Nov. 9 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, offering the Hoosiers a high‑profile showcase on their home turf.
A strategic non‑conference agenda
The marquee showdown against Kentucky will take place at Lucas Oil Stadium on Dec. 27, a game that promises to draw a statewide crowd and test the team against a perennial powerhouse.
With the schedule now anchored by these marquee dates, Indiana still has seven open slots to fill, a flexibility that the coaching staff says will allow them to fine‑tune the roster before conference play.
The full non‑conference slate was publicly released on July 1 of last year, confirming earlier rumors of games against Marquette, Louisville and the Kentucky clash.
Beyond the domestic slate, the Hoosiers will travel to Peru to compete in the FISU America Games from July 20 to Aug. 1, a tournament that will see them represent the United States and provide valuable practice time for DeVries’ newly assembled roster.
Participation in the South American event underscores the program’s commitment to global exposure and player development as the team prepares for the rigors of a 32‑game season.