A Renewed Rivalry on the Road to Nashville
The University of Connecticut’s women’s basketball program will open the 2026‑27 season with a high‑profile matchup against Louisiana State University in Nashville, Tennessee, on December 20, 2026. The game is part of the espnW Invitational, a multi‑team event that will showcase some of the nation’s top programs in a single venue.
Coaches Geno Auriemma and Kim Mulkey will lead their respective squads, reigniting a rivalry that dates back to the early 2000s. Auriemma, who has guided UConn to multiple national titles, holds a 5‑4 edge over Mulkey in their head‑to‑head meetings, including a 69‑67 victory in the 2021 NCAA Elite Eight. Mulkey, now at LSU after successful stints at Baylor, brings a championship pedigree that includes titles at both Baylor and LSU.
The upcoming contest marks the first meeting between the two powerhouses since November 2016, a game in which LSU held an 8‑1 advantage in the series overall. While the series has swung back and forth, the renewed focus on both coaches adds a narrative layer that extends beyond the court.
In addition to the UConn‑LSU showdown, the espnW Invitational will feature a clash between Virginia and Kentucky, rounding out a slate that promises competitive basketball from start to finish. The event underscores the growing popularity of women’s college basketball and the strategic scheduling efforts of top conferences.
UConn’s nonconference slate also includes exhibitions against Texas and games versus traditional rivals such as South Carolina, Duke, Michigan, Iowa, and Louisville. Each of these matchups is designed to test the Huskies against a diverse array of playing styles before they enter Big East competition.
Tickets for the Nashville game will become available to the public this fall, with plans to sell through the official UConn athletics website and partner outlets. Fans are expected to travel from across the country to witness the high‑stakes encounter at Bridgestone Arena, a venue known for its electric atmosphere during major sporting events.