Kentucky Adds Five Nonconference Games Including Indiana Rivalry

The Kentucky Wildcats men's basketball team has announced five additional nonconference home games for the 2025-26 season, all to be played at Rupp Arena. The newly added opponents are Loyola University Maryland, Tennessee Tech (coached by former Kentucky player John Pelphrey), North Carolina Central, Indiana, and in-state rival Bellarmine. The matchup with Indiana on December 13 will renew a rivalry with the Hoosiers, marking the start of a four-game series between the programs, the first meeting since their 2016 NCAA Tournament game. Kentucky's nonconference schedule, which already includes high-profile games against Louisville, Michigan State, Gonzaga, and St. John's, is shaping up to be one of the toughest in college basketball, designed to prepare the team well for SEC play and the NCAA Tournament. Head coach Mark Pope emphasized the intent to face strong competition, reflecting the program's ambition and recent success, including a Sweet 16 appearance. Additional nonconference opponents and the SEC-ACC Challenge game are expected to be announced later.