A pivotal second‑round battle
Purple Reign, the Kansas State alumni team, is set to square off against JHX Hoops in the second game of The Basketball Tournament 2026. The contest, scheduled for July 22 at 8 p.m. Eastern, carries immediate playoff implications, as a victory for JHX would force a Game 3 decider to determine which side advances.
The two squads previously met in the tournament’s opening round, with Purple Reign emerging victorious by an 80‑61 margin. Michael Beasley led the winners with 20 points, while the rest of the roster contributed to a balanced offensive attack that overwhelmed JHX’s defense.
Fans will be able to watch the action live on FS1, with additional streaming options through DIRECTV, fuboTV and Sling. The broadcast promises multiple camera angles and real‑time analysis from the tournament’s production team.
Lee Arena in Topeka, Kansas, will serve as the venue for the contest. The historic facility, located in the heart of the state’s basketball community, is expected to be packed with supporters from both programs, creating an electric atmosphere for what could become a defining moment in the tournament.
Beyond the immediate stakes, the game offers a showcase for several alumni who have remained active in professional and semi‑professional basketball circles. Names such as Billy Preston, Jacob Hanna, Xavier Sneed, Austin Trice, Shaun Williams and Zeke Mayo are slated to appear on the court, adding depth and experience to the rosters.