The University of Kansas has released its 2026‑27 non‑conference basketball schedule, a slate that blends tradition with ambitious travel. The campaign kicks off on November 2 when the Jayhawks host Fordham at Allen Fieldhouse, setting the tone for a year that will see Kansas face seven opponents from power conferences.
Season Opener and Early Tests
A marquee early‑season test arrives just eight days later, as Kansas travels to Chicago to meet Kentucky in the annual Champions Classic, a game that will be broadcast nationally and is expected to draw a massive audience.
Trips to Las Vegas and Home‑and‑Home Battles
The Jayhawks will then head west to participate in the Players Era 8 tournament in Las Vegas, a showcase event that brings together some of the nation’s top teams. Later in the month, Kansas will host Villanova in a home‑and‑home series, continuing a rivalry that has produced memorable contests in recent years.
Border War and National Spotlight
A highly anticipated Border War matchup against Missouri is slated for December 6 in Kansas City, a neutral‑site game that traditionally draws a passionate crowd from both fan bases. The schedule also includes a non‑conference showdown with UConn, adding another formidable opponent to the mix.
CBS Sports will air a clash with Ohio State on December 19 in New York as part of its annual Classic, giving the Jayhawks another national platform.
Closing the Non‑League Chapter
The regular non‑conference slate wraps up on December 29 with a game against New Orleans, after which Kansas will turn its focus to Big 12 play. Bill Self, the longtime architect of the program, emphasized that the schedule reflects the school’s commitment to testing the team against elite competition while preserving the tradition of marquee non‑conference matchups.
Fans can expect a season filled with high‑stakes games, travel adventures, and the kind of excitement that has become synonymous with Kansas basketball.