LSU’s men’s basketball program has released its 2026‑27 schedule, a slate that promises 17 contests against teams that earned postseason berths last season. The announcement underscores the Tigers’ ambition to build momentum early and to test themselves against high‑caliber opponents throughout the year.
Key matchups to watch
The season will open with a series of exhibition games in October, giving Coach Will Wade a chance to fine‑tune his roster before the official start. One of those preseason matchups pits LSU against McNeese, a program with which Wade previously had a deep connection, adding a narrative layer to the early schedule.
The regular season officially begins on November 3, when LSU hosts LSU New Orleans at the iconic Pete Maravich Assembly Center. The game marks the first chance for fans to see the new‑look Tigers in front of a home crowd.
Just three days later, on November 6, the Tigers will welcome Texas Southern to the same arena, a night that falls directly before the football team’s showdown with Alabama. The proximity of the two events creates a unique atmosphere of cross‑sport excitement on campus.
LSU then travels to Spokane, Washington, to meet Gonzaga at the Numerica Veterans Arena on November 14. The trip represents a significant non‑conference test against a program that consistently competes at the national level.
Back on the road, the Tigers will host a series of opponents at home, including Queen’s College of Charlotte, Wake Forest, Hofstra and High Point, each offering a distinct style of play and a chance for LSU to experiment with lineups.
In December, LSU journeys to Houston’s Toyota Center to take on the Cougars, an NCAA Sweet 16 team from the previous season. The game promises a high‑stakes environment and a showcase of LSU’s ability to compete in a professional‑style venue.
SEC competition kicks off on January 2, with LSU opening conference play at home against South Carolina and Tennessee. Those early league games will set the tone for the remainder of the schedule.
Later in the season, the Tigers will host Auburn on January 23 and Texas A&M on February 27, giving the team two more opportunities to strengthen their standing within the SEC.
Perhaps the most anticipated fixture is the Friday night home game against Ole Miss on February 5, a rare occurrence that hasn't been scheduled for the conference since 1991. The matchup is expected to draw a large crowd and generate significant buzz.