The University of Texas women's basketball program will open its 2025‑26 exhibition schedule with a much‑anticipated matchup against UCLA, set for October 25 at the H‑E‑B Center in Cedar Park, Texas. The game promises a fresh chapter in a rivalry that has already delivered memorable moments for both fan bases.
A milestone season for Texas
Texas rode a historic run through the 2025‑26 campaign, capturing a second straight Final Four appearance since 1987 and earning a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament for the third consecutive year. The Longhorns finished the season with a 35‑4 record, highlighted by a nation‑leading 16 victories over ranked opponents, including four wins against top‑5 teams and six against top‑10 squads. Their dominance was further underscored by capturing the 2026 SEC Tournament Championship.
The two programs previously met twice during the 2025‑26 season, with Texas securing the first victory on November 26 before UCLA advanced to the national semifinal on April 3. Historically, Texas holds an 8‑7 edge in the series, a margin that has been shaped by contests dating back to a 2021 NCAA tournament second‑round win. The upcoming exhibition will be played at the H‑E‑B Center, the same venue where Texas previously faced UCLA in a 2021 matchup.
UCLA’s recent triumph
UCLA capped the 2026 season by hoisting the NCAA Championship trophy after a hard‑fought victory over South Carolina in the final. The Bruins’ title run added another chapter to their storied postseason history and set the stage for a highly anticipated rematch with Texas later this fall.
Tickets for the exhibition will be made available to season ticket holders on September 2, with general public sales opening on September 4. The demand for seats reflects the growing excitement surrounding both programs as they prepare to showcase their talents ahead of the regular season.