Preseason Schedule Unveiled
Duke University's men's basketball program revealed its 2026 preseason exhibition slate, confirming three matchups that will see the Blue Devils travel and host opponents across the country. The schedule opens on October 8 at Cameron Indoor Stadium, where the team will welcome Belmont before turning its attention to a home game against Tennessee on October 20 and a road test at Kansas on October 25.
The Belmont contest will mark the first meeting between Duke and Evan Bradds since he departed the Duke staff to become head coach of the Bruins. Bradds previously helped the Blue Devils to a 35‑3 record in the 2025‑26 season, and his return adds a narrative subplot to a series that already includes two narrow victories for Duke in 2007 and 2011‑12.
Rivalries Renewed
Duke holds a slight edge in the all‑time series against Tennessee, leading 7‑6, and the two programs last met in a preseason exhibition that saw the Blue Devils pull out an 83‑76 win. Tennessee’s recent Elite Eight run adds a layer of intrigue, while the upcoming home game on October 20 will test the Volunteers against a Duke squad eager to extend its winning ways.
The final preseason test will take place at Allen Fieldhouse, where Kansas awaits. The Jayhawks, who finished 24‑11 last season and fell in the second round of the NCAA tournament, have historically been a tough opponent for Duke, though the Blue Devils own a 9‑7 edge in the series and a recent 78‑66 victory in the Champions Classic.
Beyond the win‑loss implications, the schedule serves as an early gauge for a Duke team that returns with high expectations after a dominant campaign. Fans will be watching closely how new additions and returning veterans mesh, with the added storylines of Bradds’ return and historic venues providing extra narrative depth.