The 2026 edition of The Basketball Tournament will see its alumni teams from the University of Kansas and Kansas State face off for a second time on Wednesday evening, with tip‑off set for 7 p.m. Central Time at Lee Arena in Topeka. The game will be carried live on FS2, giving fans another chance to watch the cross‑state rivalry unfold.
In their first encounter, Kansas State’s Purple Reign secured an 80‑61 victory over Kansas’ JHX Hoops. Purple Reign shot 51.7 % from the field, while JHX Hoops managed a 38.5 % shooting clip, underscoring the competitive edge the former held in that opening matchup.
Should the series extend to a third game, it is slated for Friday at Bramlage Coliseum in Manhattan, Kansas, a venue that has previously hosted high‑stakes college basketball contests. The prospect of a decider adds a layer of anticipation for both fan bases.
What a Third Game Could Mean
A potential third matchup would not only decide the series but also influence seeding and momentum heading into the later stages of the tournament. Both coaching staffs are likely to adjust strategies based on the first two outcomes, making the upcoming games a tactical chess match as much as a test of skill.