Kentucky’s men’s basketball program has released its 2026‑27 schedule, a slate that blends traditional rivalries with a handful of fresh challenges.
The schedule features high‑profile contests against Kansas, North Carolina, Indiana, Virginia and Louisville, while also marking the first meetings with two new opponents, Little Rock and Appalachian State, at Rupp Arena.
An exhibition game against Little Rock is set for October 16, 2026, giving fans an early glimpse of the new roster, and the regular‑season meeting with Appalachian State follows on December 5.
Ford’s return to Rupp Arena
Travis Ford, now the head coach at Little Rock and a former Kentucky player, said he is eager to step back onto the iconic Rupp Arena floor, recalling the roar of the crowd that marked his own playing days.
The Wildcats have penciled in 31 games so far, leaving room for one more contest before the season concludes, a flexibility that could shape the final non‑conference lineup.