A Reunion on the Court
The 2026 Women's Basketball Coaches Association Showcase will bring eight top programs to Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, for a weekend of high‑profile games. Among the participants are the University of South Florida and Texas Tech, who are scheduled to meet on Sunday, November 22, at 1 p.m. Eastern Time. The event, which also features Alabama, Florida A&M, Florida State, North Carolina, Purdue and UCF, offers a rare early‑season test for each squad.
This contest will be the second meeting between the two teams, the first having taken place in the 2013 NCAA Championship. In that historic game, South Florida edged Texas Tech 71‑70 in a nail‑biting finish that still resonates with fans of both programs. The memory of that victory adds a layer of narrative intrigue to the upcoming clash, as each side looks to assert early dominance.
Coach Kristy Curry, now leading the South Florida Bulls, previously guided Texas Tech from 2006 to 2013. Her journey from Lubbock to Tampa brings a personal storyline to the matchup, as she returns to a program where she once left a lasting imprint. Curry’s coaching philosophy and recruiting successes at South Florida have been widely praised, and her presence on the sidelines adds a compelling subplot to the game.
The showcase format, organized by the Women's Basketball Coaches Association, is designed to give teams competitive early‑season matchups while highlighting the growth of women's college basketball. With games scheduled across multiple venues at Disney World, the event also serves as a celebration of the sport’s expanding fan base. Organizers expect the weekend to draw significant attendance, underscoring the rising popularity of women's basketball.
Beyond the court, the tournament will be held in the vibrant atmosphere of Walt Disney World, offering fans a unique blend of entertainment and sport. The partnership with the University of South Florida and other institutions reflects a broader commitment to promoting women's athletics at the national level. As the teams prepare, the anticipation among players, coaches and supporters alike promises a memorable start to the season.