Syracuse University’s men’s and women’s basketball programs will travel to the Mohegan Sun this fall to take part in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Exhibition Series, facing off against the University of Connecticut in back‑to‑back matchups.
The women’s game is slated for October 12, with the men’s contest following on October 13, marking the first meeting between the Syracuse men and UConn since 2018 and reviving a rivalry that has defined many memorable moments on the court.
A rivalry steeped in history
The two schools share a storied past, most notably a six‑overtime thriller in the 2009 Big East Tournament that saw Connecticut edge out Syracuse 127‑117. That game remains one of the longest in college basketball history and underscores the intensity of their competition.
The women’s side last met UConn in the opening round of the 2026 NCAA Tournament, falling 98‑45. Coach Felisha Legette‑Jack has since voiced disappointment with the NCAA selection committee for pairing the Orange with the Huskies again, calling the draw “unfortunate” for the program’s growth.
For the men, the upcoming exhibition will be their first encounter with the Huskies in eight years, a gap that adds a layer of anticipation as both squads look to fine‑tune their strategies ahead of the regular season.
The series also highlights the growing partnership between the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame and the NCAA, showcasing top talent from across the nation in a setting that blends tradition with spectacle.
Looking ahead
Fans can expect a high‑energy atmosphere at the Mohegan Sun, a venue that has become a frequent stage for marquee college basketball events. As the Orange prepare to face UConn, the matches promise to add another chapter to a rivalry that has produced some of the sport’s most unforgettable moments.