The University of Connecticut’s women’s basketball program will headline a marquee matchup in the 2026 espnW Invitational, taking on Louisiana State University on December 20 at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. The game brings together two of the most decorated coaches in recent NCAA history, Geno Auriemma and Kim Mulkey, who last faced each other in 2016.
A rivalry renewed
Auriemma, who has guided UConn to multiple national titles, and Mulkey, the architect of recent LSU championships, share a storied history that includes an 8‑1 edge for the Huskies in their head‑to‑head series. Their reunion promises a high‑stakes contest that will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
A demanding non‑conference slate
Beyond the LSU showdown, UConn’s 2026‑27 schedule is packed with tests against seven teams that appear in the ESPN Way‑Too‑Early Top 25. The Huskies are slated to meet No. 1 South Carolina, No. 3 Duke and No. 10 LSU, while also playing an exhibition against No. 8 Texas. Additional regular‑season battles include contests with Syracuse, Michigan, Iowa, Louisville and Maryland, setting up a rigorous road to the postseason.
Nashville’s arena prepares for a historic night
Bridgestone Arena, located in the heart of downtown Nashville, will host the December 20 contest, offering a vibrant backdrop for what could become a defining moment in both programs’ seasons. The venue’s state‑of‑the‑art facilities and central location are expected to draw a sizable crowd, further amplifying the event’s national appeal.