A Century of Hoops
The Big 5 women's basketball showcase is back, bringing together six NCAA Division I programs for a weekend that blends tradition with innovation. The event will be anchored by a tripleheader at the historic Palestra, a venue that has been a cornerstone of college basketball since its opening in 1927.
This year's format departs from the classic round‑robin approach. Teams are divided into two pods of three, each playing a mini‑round robin at their home courts before converging in Philadelphia. The winners of the pods will meet for the championship, while the second‑placed teams contest a third‑place game and the remaining squads battle for fifth place.
Pods and Matchups
One pod features Drexel, Penn and Saint Joseph's, while the other brings together La Salle, Temple and Villanova. Temple will host Villanova on December 1 and travel to La Salle on November 11, setting up a pair of early‑season confrontations that could shape the pod standings.
The culmination of the schedule is a tripleheader at the Palestra on December 6, 2026. The arena, located on the University of Pennsylvania campus, will not only crown a champion but also celebrate its 100th anniversary, a milestone that underscores its enduring place in college basketball lore.
The Palestra's legacy is woven into the fabric of the sport. Since opening its doors in 1927, it has hosted countless memorable games, from historic upsets to record‑breaking performances. Its intimate atmosphere and storied past make it a fitting stage for a centennial celebration that will draw fans from across the nation.