Kansas basketball is set to open the 2026‑27 campaign with a trio of home exhibition games that promise to draw large crowds to Allen Fieldhouse.
The first matchup arrives on October 16 against Pittsburg State, followed by a showdown with Louisville on October 21 and a clash against Duke on October 25, each scheduled before the regular season begins.
A Strategic Move for Fan Engagement
Coach Bill Self says the presence of Louisville and Duke on the slate is intentional, aiming to make the schedule more attractive to supporters while giving the team a chance to gauge its early chemistry.
Adding to the excitement, the Jayhawks will be led by two highly touted freshmen guards — Tyran Stokes, the nation’s top prospect, and Taylen Kinney, ranked 20th nationally — who are expected to inject fresh energy into the roster.
The program also hopes to improve on last season’s disappointment, when Kansas fell in the round of 32 of the NCAA tournament, and views these early contests as a springboard toward a deeper tournament run.