The University of Cincinnati’s women’s basketball squad is slated to travel to Mexico next November for the 2026 Cancun Challenge, a showcase event that brings together some of the nation’s most promising programs.
The tournament will unfold at the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya, a resort complex on the Yucatán Peninsula, from November 26 through 27, featuring a six‑team field that includes Kansas, Miami (Ohio), Minnesota, Missouri State and Washington State.
Cincinnati’s schedule pits the Bearcats against two Mid‑American Conference rivals. On Thursday, November 26, they will meet Miami (Ohio) at 9 p.m. Eastern, followed by a Friday night clash with Minnesota at the same hour.
Both opponents reached the NCAA tournament a season ago; Miami (Ohio) secured its automatic bid by capturing the conference championship, while Minnesota posted a 24‑9 record and advanced to the Sweet 16.
A Milestone Tournament
Now in its 22nd edition, the Cancun Challenge is organized by Triple Crown Sports, a company that has built a reputation for producing high‑profile collegiate competitions across the United States.
The upcoming edition marks a significant milestone, not only for the Bearcats but also for the tournament’s growing stature, as it continues to provide a platform for teams to fine‑tune their strategies ahead of the regular season.
Fans can expect competitive matchups, as each squad will play two games, offering a compact yet intense schedule that highlights the depth of talent across the participating conferences.