The Atlantic Coast Conference has released its 2026‑27 men’s basketball slate, a 18‑game conference schedule that will shape the upcoming season for all twelve members.
For Wake Forest, the draw includes a double‑header against Notre Dame and a complete omission of Virginia, a team that dominated the league a year ago.
The Demon Deacons will enjoy the rare luxury of hosting each of the league’s “Big Four” rivals on their home floor, a scenario that could boost their win total.
Balancing Home Strength with Away Hurdles
Road trips will take them to California, where they must navigate long flights to Berkeley and Palo Alto, as well as a journey to Dallas to face Southern Methodist University.
Coaches and analysts note that the distance and time‑zone shifts could test the team’s stamina, especially when confronting opponents that play at a faster pace on their own courts.
Nevertheless, the schedule’s structure appears to tilt in Wake Forest’s favor, offering a blend of manageable travel and opportunities to capitalize on home‑court advantage.
The upcoming season will test the Demon Deacons’ depth, as they will need to adapt quickly to the rigors of cross‑country competition while maintaining consistency at the Winston‑Salem arena.
If they can translate their home performances into road success, the early optimism surrounding the schedule could materialize into a competitive campaign.