Butler Announces 2026‑27 Nonconference Slate
Butler University has announced its nonconference slate for the 2026‑27 men’s basketball season, adding two home games that will debut new opponents on the schedule.
The Bulldogs will host Fairleigh Dickinson on November 4 and Western Carolina on November 17 at the historic Hinkle Fieldhouse, marking the first meetings between Butler and each of those programs.
Debut Opponents
In addition to those debuts, Butler has already locked in contests with Lafayette and Bellarmine, bringing the confirmed portion of the schedule to four games while the remainder of the slate awaits tip‑off times and television designations.
Fairleigh Dickinson concluded the previous season with an 11‑21 record and was ranked 336th nationally by KenPom, while Western Carolina finished 15‑16 and sat at 227th, underscoring the modest pedigree of the upcoming opponents.
The overall nonconference slate appears relatively light for Butler, especially as it enters a new era under first‑year head coach Ronald Nored, whose staff is still finalizing the tougher road challenges.
The most demanding tests are slated for trips to face the University of North Carolina and Boise State, games whose dates have yet to be announced, promising a stark contrast to the early home matchups.