A holiday matchup in Seattle
On December 19, 2026, the Washington Huskies will step onto the hardwood at Climate Pledge Arena to face the Bears of Baylor in a highly anticipated non‑conference contest. The game anchors the first edition of the Seattle Holiday Classic, a festive basketball weekend that also showcases a Washington State versus Seattle U matchup later that day.
Climate Pledge Arena, originally built for the 1962 World's Fair, has been transformed into a modern, environmentally conscious venue. It earned the distinction of being the first arena to achieve Zero Carbon Certification, making it a fitting backdrop for a game that emphasizes both competition and sustainability.
For the Huskies, the contest represents more than just a seasonal diversion. Head coach Danny Sprinkle has framed the matchup as a valuable résumé‑building opportunity, a chance to gauge his squad against an elite opponent before the rigors of Big Ten play commence.
Ticket information adds another layer of excitement. Season Ticket Holders receive priority access to the best seats, while the general public will be able to purchase tickets starting August 19, 2026. The event is expected to draw a sizable local crowd eager to support the Dawgs on home turf.
Beyond the game itself, the Holiday Classic underscores the growing prominence of college basketball in the Pacific Northwest. The gathering of teams, fans, and media highlights Seattle’s role as a hub for innovative sports experiences, blending tradition with cutting‑edge sustainability practices.
The full non‑conference schedule for Washington will be released later in the season, but the December 19 showdown is already generating considerable buzz. As the Huskies prepare to test their mettle against Baylor, the game promises to be a memorable highlight of the 2026‑27 campaign.