In a move that’s sending shockwaves through the college basketball world, Duke Blue Devils head coach Jon Scheyer has announced a marquee matchup that will kick off the 2025-26 season in style. The Blue Devils will face off against the Texas Longhorns in the inaugural *Dick Vitale Invitational*, a prime-time showdown that promises to be one of the most highly anticipated games of the season.
Scheduled for November 4 at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, this matchup will pit two of the nation’s top programs against each other, with the added prestige of honoring the legendary Dick Vitale. ESPN’s iconic voice has been a staple of college basketball for decades, and his battle with cancer has only amplified the excitement surrounding this event.
The Dick Vitale Invitational is set to become an annual highlight of the college basketball calendar, and Duke’s involvement in the inaugural event is a testament to the program’s commitment to excellence. With Vitale’s storied history with the Blue Devils, this matchup is more than just a game – it’s a celebration of the sport and one of its most beloved figures. But that’s not all – Duke’s non-conference schedule is shaping up to be one for the ages, with high-profile matchups against powerhouses like Arkansas, Kansas, and Michigan. The Blue Devils will also take on Michigan State and Army on the road, testing their mettle against top competition in a variety of settings. As the season tips off, one thing is clear: Duke basketball is ready to make a statement. With the Dick Vitale Invitational leading the charge, the Blue Devils are poised to take on the best of the best and prove why they’re one of the nation’s elite programs. Will they live up to the hype? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure – this season is shaping up to be unforgettable.
