
Michael Malone Looks to Rekindle UNC‑NC State Rivalry in 2026 Showdown
After a decade‑long hiatus, the Tar Heels and Wolfpack will meet again in December 2026, with Malone eager to avenge a recent loss.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Justin Gainey across Basketball.

After a decade‑long hiatus, the Tar Heels and Wolfpack will meet again in December 2026, with Malone eager to avenge a recent loss.

The first ever Tobacco Road Classic will pit the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill against North Carolina State in Greensboro, marking the first regular‑season meeting of the two programs since 1979 and highlighting the impact of the ACC's schedule reshuffle.

The Tar Heels and Wolfpack will meet for the first time since 1979 in a non‑conference clash branded the Tobacco Road Classic, featuring fresh coaching storylines and player transfers.

UNC and NC State will meet in Greensboro on Dec. 15, 2026, under the sponsorship of Old Dominion Freight Line, marking a pivotal moment for both programs as they navigate a reshaped ACC schedule and new leadership.
After a Colorado district court extended his eligibility, Ven-Allen Lubin will play his fifth and final college season with the Wolfpack, bringing experience and efficiency to a roster reshaped by new head coach Justin Gainey.
Ven-Allen Lubin is set to don the red and white for one final collegiate campaign, returning to North Carolina State for the 2026‑27 season after a Colorado district court granted him an extra year of eligibility.
After a federal court granted him a fifth year of eligibility, Ven-Allen Lubin is set to anchor the Wolfpack’s frontcourt alongside a mix of newcomers and seasoned teammates.

NC State secures veteran forward Ven-Allen Lubin for an additional season, bolstering the Wolfpack’s defense and leadership ahead of the new campaign.
After a mass exodus and the return of Will Wade to LSU, the Wolfpack are rebuilding with scholarships, new frontcourt talent, and a defensive identity that could keep them on the bubble.

The Wolfpack secure their first 2027 recruit in forward Jamil Robinson and add four-star small forward Markus Kerr to a class that could reshape the team's trajectory.

The schedule blends home buy games with road tests against ranked opponents, highlighting key dates and venues across the early season.

On Oct. 20, the Volunteers will travel to Durham to meet the Blue Devils in a preseason exhibition that promises another tight contest, while both teams navigate ambitious road tests and major roster changes.

The Volunteers have released their complete 2026‑27 schedule, highlighting a season‑opening home game, a marquee matchup with Michigan State and a series of SEC contests that culminate with a road trip to Vanderbilt.

The University of Tennessee has released its complete 2026‑27 men’s basketball slate, revealing a blend of home‑court showcase games, marquee non‑conference matchups and a full SEC campaign that culminates in early March.

Tennessee has released its complete 2026‑27 men's basketball schedule, highlighting a home opener against Wofford, a marquee clash with Michigan State and a showdown against NC State, and a SEC slate that begins Jan. 2 at Vanderbilt.
Tennessee basketball will face Michigan State on November 17 at the Food City Center, kicking off a home‑and‑home series while also meeting Maryland in Las Vegas and a lineup of top SEC opponents.

The Wolfpack’s offseason program is already generating buzz, with new faces stepping up and the coaching staff showcasing the revamped roster.

A look at the 2026 coaching changes, from Mike Boynton at Michigan to Michael Malone at North Carolina, and how their backgrounds could shape the sport's future.

The 2026‑27 men’s college basketball season promises dramatic changes, from high‑profile coaching moves to marquee player returns and a transfer portal that has reshaped rosters nationwide.
Coach Justin Gainey’s focus on defense, rebounding and teamwork defines N.C. State’s preparation, as new players join and veterans return for a season that promises tough matchups.

A behind‑the‑scenes look at the Wolfpack’s offseason regimen, featuring standout performances from Paul McNeil Jr., Preston Edmead and Darius Adams.

The open practice gave a snapshot of the team’s chemistry, roster depth and the recovery progress of key players.
Jordan Page, a 6‑foot‑6 wing currently at IMG Academy, has received a scholarship offer from Kentucky and is narrowing his college options based on winning potential and production.

The Vols have announced a 14‑game non‑conference schedule that could expand to 15 contests, featuring seven power‑five opponents, a home series with Michigan State, a road test at Purdue, and a Thanksgiving tournament in Las Vegas.