The University of Northern Iowa women's basketball program has unveiled its 2026‑27 non‑conference schedule, a 12‑game lineup that blends home exhibitions with challenging road trips. The season opens on October 26 with a home exhibition against Upper Iowa, setting the tone for a campaign that promises both excitement and competition.
Key Matchups to Watch
Among the highlighted matchups is a marquee showdown against Iowa State, scheduled for November 18 at the McLeod Center. The game draws considerable attention as the Panthers look to test themselves against a program that consistently competes at the national level.
UNI also carries a strong historical edge in several rivalries. The team boasts a 3‑0 record against St. Thomas and is chasing its sixth all‑time victory over South Dakota State, a program they last met in Brookings, South Dakota, in 2021. A November 12 contest in Iowa City against the Hawkeyes offers another chance to add to that legacy, with the Panthers aiming for a second win on their opponent's floor.
The Panthers will enjoy a stretch of four straight home games, beginning with a November 15 rivalry clash against Creighton, their alma mater. That sequence underscores the program's intent to leverage home‑court advantage while preparing for a demanding road swing that includes stops at Kansas State, North Dakota State and Minnesota.
The schedule wraps up on December 12 with a home game against Toledo, capping a journey that has seen the team face NCAA Tournament qualifiers and squads with recent tournament experience. Across the slate, the coaching staff emphasizes growth, resilience and the pursuit of early season momentum.