The upcoming Jacksonville Classic will bring together Oregon State, Vanderbilt and Middle Tennessee in a three‑team women's basketball showcase slated for November 23‑25, 2026, at Florida State College in Jacksonville, Florida.
Oregon State’s presence marks a notable return for the Beavers, who last faced Middle Tennessee in the 2014 NCAA Tournament first round, a 55‑36 victory that still resonates among fans.
The tournament will feature key returnees for the Beavers, senior guard Kennedie Shuler and forward Jenna Villa, both of whom earned All‑WCC honors and will be pivotal in the Pac‑12 campaign.
Coach Scott Rueck, who has guided Oregon State to ten consecutive seasons with at least 20 wins, brings a proven formula that has kept the program consistently competitive.
A historic rivalry resurfaces
The matchup revives a series that dates back to the early 2010s, when Oregon State’s dominant defense limited Middle Tennessee to low scores, a pattern that could repeat given current rosters.
Beyond the on‑court storylines, the event highlights the growing visibility of women's college basketball in the Southeast, with local organizers emphasizing community outreach and youth clinics tied to the tournament.
Looking ahead
As the 2026 season approaches, analysts will watch how the Beavers integrate Shuler and Villa into a lineup that already features a strong defensive identity, while Vanderbilt’s recent Sweet 16 run adds another layer of intrigue.
Ticket information and the full schedule will be released in the coming weeks at www.jacksonvilleclassic.com, giving fans ample time to plan for what promises to be a marquee event.