A demanding non‑conference slate
Missouri State University has released its 14‑game non‑conference schedule for the 2026‑27 women’s basketball season, a slate that blends home‑court comfort with a gauntlet of elite opponents. The schedule features six home games and four contests against teams that finished among the top 70 in the NET rankings from the previous season.
The Lady Bears open the campaign at home against SEMO on November 2, 2026, before traveling to Wyoming for their first ever meeting on November 7. A rematch with Wichita State follows on November 10, marking the fourth straight year the two programs have faced off.
On November 13, Missouri State will host Marquette, ending a 31‑year hiatus from a series that began in the 1994‑95 season. The Bears will then head to Cancun for the Cancun Challenge, where they will meet Minnesota on November 26 and 27, with a second opponent to be determined.
December 3 brings a showdown at historic Allen Fieldhouse against Kansas, a venue that has tested many a Bear. The non‑conference stretch concludes with four of the final five games on home soil, featuring matchups against Central Arkansas, North Dakota State, UT Arlington and Austin Peay.
Returning talent and new faces
The Bears return seven players from a 23‑13 season that produced the program’s first Conference USA Tournament championship and an NCAA Tournament berth. Alongside them, seven newcomers will join the roster, adding depth and fresh energy as the team looks to build on last year’s success.
With a blend of experienced veterans and promising newcomers, Missouri State aims to translate its early‑season challenges into momentum heading into conference play. The schedule not only tests the squad against top competition but also provides valuable preparation for the rigors of the upcoming conference slate.