Late Night in the Phog Returns for 2026
The University of Kansas will bring back its popular Late Night in the Phog series in 2026, splitting the tradition into two separate showcase nights for the men’s and women’s programs.
On October 16, the Jayhawks will open their exhibition schedule against Pittsburg State, a game that will be preceded by Phog Fest, a fan‑filled celebration featuring food trucks, games and giveaways. The matchup will be overseen by Pittsburg State’s head coach Jeff Boschee, a former KU standout, adding a narrative twist to the contest.
A week later, on October 29, the women’s team will host Washburn in another exhibition contest, which will be highlighted by elevated fan activations and an enhanced team introduction ceremony. Community tickets for the event will be made available through Kansas Athletics, granting early access to supporters.
Both events will take place inside Allen Fieldhouse, the iconic venue that will also serve as the backdrop for a broader slate of eight non‑conference home games before the Big 12 season begins. The men’s team is slated to travel to Louisville on October 21 before returning for the Pittsburg State showdown, while the women’s squad will also meet Northeastern State and Omaha in early‑season exhibition play.
Player Storylines and Fan Excitement
Returning All‑Big 12 First Team members S'Mya Nichols and Jaliya Davis will anchor the women’s lineup, while Brittany Harshaw’s 20‑point performance in the recent 81‑54 victory over Louisville underscores the depth of talent on the roster. The Jayhawks’ dominant 90‑82 win over Louisville on October 24, 2025, further illustrates the program’s momentum heading into the new season.
The upcoming Late Night events promise a blend of competitive basketball, community engagement and festive activities, reinforcing Kansas’s commitment to delivering a memorable experience for fans of all ages.