A marquee preseason showdown
Baylor’s men’s basketball team will meet No. 1 ranked Florida in a preseason exhibition on October 18 at the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena in Jacksonville, Florida. The game marks the first meeting between the programs since November 24, 2023, when Baylor edged the Gators 95‑91 in a thrilling finish.
Florida arrives as the preseason favorite, having been tabbed No. 1 by CBS Sports, ESPN and Sports Illustrated for the 2026‑27 season. The Gators captured the 2026 SEC regular‑season title and return 80% of their scoring, including four starters — Thomas Haugh, Boogie Fland, Alex Condon and Reuben Chinyelu — under second‑year coach Todd Golden.
Experience meets fresh talent
Baylor, led by Scott Drew in his 24th year, reached the semifinals of the College Basketball Crown last season and will look to capitalize on that momentum. New additions such as Isaac Williams IV, Brett Decker, Kayden Mingo, Isaac Celiscar and Evan Chatman are expected to bolster the roster, while top prospects Dylan Mingo and Elijah Williams are also set to join the program.
Tickets go on sale September 16, with a 24‑hour presale beginning the day before. The exhibition promises a high‑profile test for both clubs as they fine‑tune preparations for the upcoming regular season.