Utah Valley’s men’s basketball program is slated to make its debut in the 2026 U.S. Virgin Islands Paradise Jam, a four‑day early‑season tournament that will unfold from November 20 to 23 on the island of St. Thomas. The event, staged at the University of the Virgin Islands Sports and Fitness Center, brings together eight programs in a bracket that guarantees each team three games.
A historic venue and a stacked field
The Paradise Jam has earned a reputation over 27 years for attracting NCAA Tournament teams and nationally recognized programs. This year’s field includes Temple, Middle Tennessee, Indiana State, Stephen F. Austin, UT Martin, Southern Illinois, East Carolina, and Utah Valley, offering a blend of mid‑major powerhouses and rising contenders.
Bracket dynamics
Utah Valley will open play against East Carolina on Friday, November 20, at 9 p.m. AST (7 p.m. MT). The winner of that matchup is slated to meet the victor of the UT Martin versus Southern Illinois game in the semifinals on Sunday, November 22. The championship and consolation games will conclude the tournament on Monday, November 23, completing a schedule that promises a full slate of competitive basketball.
Looking ahead
While television and streaming details are still pending, the tournament’s organizers have indicated that additional information will be released in the coming weeks. For Utah Valley, the Paradise Jam represents the first confirmed events on its 2026‑27 schedule, setting the stage for a season that could see the team build momentum early and aim for a deep run in subsequent conference play.