The Marshall Thundering Herd men's basketball team has secured two high‑profile non‑conference matchups for the 2026‑27 season, meeting Ohio State in Columbus and North Carolina in Chapel Hill during November 2026.
A test of early‑season mettle
Coach Cornelius "Corny" Jackson said the schedule offers the program a chance to measure its progress against two of the nation's traditional powerhouses.
The games will be played at Value City Arena, home of the Buckeyes, and the Dean Smith Center, where the Tar Heels have enjoyed decades of success.
Both venues present distinct challenges, from the raucous atmosphere in Columbus to the storied court in Chapel Hill, and Jackson believes the experience will accelerate the Herd's development.
Marshall's previous encounters with Ohio State have been limited, with the last meeting in 2016 ending in an 111‑70 defeat, while the Tar Heels hold a 3‑0 edge, the most recent a 98‑61 win in 2009.
Despite those historical results, Jackson emphasized that the upcoming contests are about more than scores, aiming to showcase the team's growth and competitiveness on a national stage.
The remainder of Marshall's non‑conference slate will be announced later, leaving fans eager to see how the schedule unfolds.