Syracuse University and the University of Connecticut will meet again on the hardwood this fall, as both programs schedule exhibition contests at the Mohegan Sun in October 2026. The women's game is slated for October 12, with the men's contest following on October 13, offering fans a rare early‑season glimpse of two of college basketball's most storied programs.
The matchup revives a rivalry that dates back decades, marked by memorable encounters such as the 2016 National Championship game where UConn emerged victorious and a legendary six‑overtime battle in the 2009 BIG EAST Tournament quarterfinal that saw Syracuse triumph 127‑117. Those moments have cemented a competitive history that continues to draw attention from fans and analysts alike.
A Renewed Rivalry
John L. Doleva, President and CEO of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, highlighted the significance of the exhibition series, noting that the games celebrate a historic rivalry while providing a platform for both teams to showcase their talent before a national audience. "We are thrilled to bring together two programs with such rich legacies," Doleva said, underscoring the event's alignment with the Hall of Fame's mission to honor basketball's greatest stories.
Jeff Hamilton, President & GM of Mohegan Sun, emphasized the venue's role as a premier destination for high‑level basketball, stating that the facility's state‑of‑the‑art amenities and passionate fan base make it an ideal setting for these exhibition contests. "Hosting Syracuse and UConn reinforces our commitment to delivering world‑class basketball experiences," Hamilton added.
Coaches from both squads expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming games. Syracuse's Felisha Legette‑Jack and UConn's Geno Auriemma, along with Dan Hurley and Gerry McNamara, spoke about the importance of using the exhibition to fine‑tune strategies and build chemistry early in the season. Their remarks reflect a shared excitement to give fans a preview of what promises to be an electrifying start to the 2026‑27 campaign.
Ticket information will be released in the coming weeks, with plans to make the games accessible to a broad audience through both in‑person attendance and streaming options. The events are expected to draw significant interest, given the historic nature of the matchup and the growing popularity of women's college basketball.