The Mid-American Conference and Sun Belt Conference announced this week that their collaborative basketball scheduling alliance will continue through the 2028‑29 season. The partnership, originally launched in 2023‑24, now guarantees 12 contests for both men's and women's teams from each league, all of which will be carried on ESPN's television and streaming platforms.
Behind the scenes, Ordinal Sports Group provides the logistical backbone for the arrangement, using NET rankings, geographic considerations and historical contest frequency to craft balanced matchups. This data‑driven approach aims to reduce travel burdens while preserving competitive equity across the two regions.
Voices from the Commissioners
Sun Belt Conference Commissioner Keith Gill praised the extension, saying the alliance has created a "vibrant competitive environment" that benefits student‑athletes and institutions alike. MAC Commissioner Dr. Jon Steinbrecher added that the partnership underscores a commitment to "enhancing exposure and developmental opportunities" for programs across the Midwest and Southeast.
The most recent season offered a glimpse of the alliance's competitive balance. In 2025‑26, the Sun Belt's men's programs remained unbeaten in MAC‑SBC contests, improving their combined record to 41‑33 overall. Meanwhile, the women's side saw an even split of victories, with each conference securing 13 wins.
Looking Ahead to the 2026‑27 Season
The first round of the 2026‑27 challenge is slated to tip off on November 2, setting the stage for a series of high‑stakes games that will continue through February. In the second round, scheduled for February 6, the Sun Belt women will host the MAC, while the MAC men will host the Sun Belt, creating a rotating home‑court dynamic that rewards geographic proximity and fan engagement.