Season Overview
Elon University’s men’s basketball program has released its 2026‑27 non‑conference schedule, a 14‑game lineup that stretches from early November through late December. The slate is evenly split, with seven home contests at the Schar Center and seven away games that will take the team across the country.
The campaign opens on November 2 with a trip to Columbia University in New York, setting the tone for a series of road challenges that will test the Phoenix against a variety of opponents.
Key Road Tests
The early road stretch includes a matchup at South Carolina of the SEC on November 18 and a clash with ACC powerhouse NC State on November 28, highlighting the team’s willingness to face top‑tier competition. Additional away dates feature Furman on November 24, James Madison on December 3 and a meeting with NC Wesleyan on December 6, each offering a different style of competition.
These road games also bring familiar storylines, such as the return matchup with James Madison, who left the Coastal Athletic Association in 2021‑22, and a rematch with Furman, a former Southern Conference foe.
Home Opener and Rivalry
Back at the Schar Center, the Phoenix will host UNCG on November 6, renewing a 47‑game rivalry that has seen Elon win the last two meetings, the most recent a 92‑90 overtime thriller in Greensboro. A week later, Chattanooga, a former Southern Conference rival, returns to the arena, continuing a series that has produced memorable contests over the years.
December Home Slate
December brings a busy home stretch, beginning with a game against Richmond on December 12, followed by matchups with Longwood on December 16 and Montreat College on December 19. The final road game of the non‑conference period arrives on December 22 at Radford, closing a schedule that blends fresh challenges with familiar battles.
Overall, the 2026‑27 non‑conference slate promises a dynamic mix of competition, giving the Phoenix ample opportunity to test its mettle before stepping into conference play.