Ball State University announced its 2026‑27 men’s basketball slate this week, revealing a schedule that signals the start of a fresh era under head coach Chris Capko. The Cardinals will open the season with a series of exhibition matches before stepping onto the regular‑season hardwood in early November.
Exhibition Schedule
The exhibition circuit features two home games that will give fans a first look at Capko’s system. On October 18 the team will host Purdue, followed by a showdown with Purdue Fort Wayne on October 28. Both games are expected to serve as crucial tune‑ups as the roster settles into its new roles.
Regular‑Season Opener
The regular season kicks off on November 2 with a road test at Georgia Southern, part of the MAC‑Sun Belt Challenge. That early road trip will set the tone for a schedule that blends home‑court comfort with demanding away environments.
Nonconference Highlights
Beyond the opening stretch, the nonconference slate includes three in‑state rivals — Indiana State, Brescia University and Ohio — while also traveling to face ACC opponents, highlighted by a return visit to SMU, where Capko previously served as associate head coach. Those matchups promise competitive challenges and a chance to test the team against top‑tier talent.
Conference Play
The bulk of the calendar belongs to the Mid‑American Conference, where the Cardinals will contest 22 league games, meeting each of the other 11 conference members twice. Conference contests are marked with an asterisk, including marquee matchups against Akron, Eastern Michigan, Toledo and others.
Overall, the schedule blends home‑court familiarity with a gauntlet of away games, offering a balanced test that could shape the team’s identity under Capko’s guidance.