Washington State University has officially confirmed its place in the 2026 Cancun Challenge, a women's college basketball tournament that will take place during Thanksgiving week at the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya in Mexico.
A Thanksgiving Tradition Returns
The event, organized by Triple Crown Sports, runs from November 26 to 28 and represents the 21st edition of the competition, which has become a staple of holiday‑week sports programming.
A Deepening Field
Six teams have been slated to compete, including Kansas, Miami (OH), Minnesota and Washington State, while two additional opponents are still being finalized.
Triple Crown Sports highlighted the blend of warm weather, world‑class resort amenities and high‑level basketball that will be offered to participants and spectators alike.
Fan packages are now available, giving attendees the opportunity to experience the tournament in a tropical setting while enjoying luxury accommodations and a range of activities beyond the games.
The Cougars will join a field that already includes traditional powerhouses, underscoring the growing prestige of the event and the continued expansion of women's college basketball on a national stage.