The University of Florida announced its complete non‑conference slate for the 2026‑27 men’s basketball season, a schedule that blends traditional rivals with fresh challenges.
A historic rivalry revisited
Florida will open the season on Dec. 12 in Orlando, facing Georgia Tech at the Kia Center as part of the Hall of Fame series. The Gators hold a 20‑24 all‑time edge over the Yellow Jackets, last meeting in 1987 when they prevailed 80‑69 in Gainesville.
The following week, on Dec. 18, the Gators travel to Jacksonville to meet Grand Canyon at the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena. It will be the first ever matchup between Florida and the Lopes, who entered the 2025‑26 season with a 20‑12 record and three straight NCAA Tournament appearances before a down year that saw them finish 11‑20 and lose their head coach.
A new coaching direction
Scott Cross, who spent seven seasons at Troy leading the Trojans to two Sun Belt titles and consecutive NCAA Tournament bids, will take the reins at Florida. His arrival signals a shift in philosophy after Troy’s recent success and adds a layer of intrigue to the Gators’ non‑conference slate.
Beyond the two marquee games, the schedule also features contests against Miami, Florida State, Notre Dame, and a series of SEC Tournament matchups, ensuring a rigorous test before conference play begins.
All games are slated for broadcast on the university’s regional network, with tickets for the Orlando and Jacksonville contests expected to go on sale in early September.