Saint Joseph's University has released the complete schedule for the 2026 Big 5 Classic, a tournament that will mark the 100th anniversary of The Palestra, the storied arena that first opened its doors in 1927.
Six Philadelphia‑based NCAA Division I women's programs have been divided into two pods of three teams each, with each pod playing a series of games at their respective home venues before converging for the final round.
Pod 1 features Saint Joseph's, Drexel and Penn, while Pod 2 includes La Salle, Temple and Villanova. The first‑place teams from each pod will meet at The Palestra on Sunday, December 6, to contest the championship, while the second‑ and third‑place finishers will battle for third and fifth places in a tripleheader format.
A Century‑Old Venue Takes Center Stage
The Palestra, often described as the "Cathedral of College Basketball," will host the championship round for the first time in its 100‑year history. Its intimate setting, historic architecture and deep roots in the sport lend a special resonance to the milestone celebration.
Games in Pod 1 are slated from November 6 through November 18, with Saint Joseph's opening its pod schedule on Sunday, November 15 at Drexel before hosting Penn on Wednesday, November 18. Pod 2 matches run from November 11 to December 1, culminating in the final showdown at The Palestra.
Beyond the on‑court action, the tournament serves as a showcase for the region’s women's basketball heritage, drawing attention to the growth of the sport and the legacy of the participating programs.