The University of Washington’s men’s basketball program has released its non‑conference schedule for the 2026‑27 season, a slate that blends early‑season exhibitions with marquee matchups against some of the nation’s top programs.
A challenging road ahead
The Huskies will open their campaign with a home exhibition against Washington State on October 25 at Alaska Airlines Arena, followed by a road test at Boise State on October 17. The highly anticipated Apple Cup exhibition will again be staged at the same arena on October 25, giving fans a chance to see the team in a familiar setting before the regular season begins.
Later in November, Washington will host Mississippi Valley State on November 9 before traveling to Utah for a November 14 contest. The team will also welcome Utah Tech in Seattle on November 19, and will compete in the 2026 Southwest Maui Invitational, opening against BYU on November 23.
The schedule culminates with a December 19 showdown against Baylor at Climate Pledge Arena, part of the Seattle Holiday Classic, and wraps up with a December 28 game against Cornell.
Beyond the opponents, the Huskies will be reshaped by six returning players, five transfers, three international recruits and a new local prospect, Lattimore Ford. The roster additions are complemented by the hiring of assistant coaches DeAndre Haynes and Charles Klask, who will bring fresh perspectives to the bench.
Coach Mike Hopkins and his staff are targeting a return to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2019, a goal that underscores the program’s ambition despite the early‑season challenges.