Fordham Rams Set for Historic Opener in Lawrence
The Fordham University men's basketball team will begin the 2026‑27 campaign on November 2, 2026, when it travels to Allen Fieldhouse in Lawrence, Kansas, to face the University of Kansas. The matchup marks the sixth meeting between the Rams and the Jayhawks, a series that has seen Fordham win just once.
Kansas has dominated the series, holding a 4‑1 edge, with the last encounter dating back to 1977. The Rams hope to rewrite that narrative under second‑year head coach Mike Magpayo, who guided the program to a 17‑15 record in his debut season.
Magpayo will rely on a core group of five returning players: Roor Akhuar, Abass Bodija, Akira Jacobs, Rikus Schulte and Jack Whitbourn. Their experience, combined with the coach's second‑year development, could give the Rams the depth needed to compete against a traditionally powerhouse Kansas squad.
A Roster Built for Growth
The upcoming season also brings a sense of continuity for Fordham, as the same group of veterans will look to build on the progress made last year. Their chemistry, paired with Magpayo's tactical adjustments, may prove decisive in close contests, especially on the road where the atmosphere at Allen Fieldhouse is renowned for its intensity.
Beyond the opening game, the schedule includes trips to other venues such as the Bronx's Madison Square Garden and a potential showdown in West Virginia, though the primary focus remains on the Kansas contest. The Rams' ability to navigate these varied environments will be an early indicator of their season‑long resilience.