The announcement sets up an intriguing season for a Kentucky team coming off an impressive debut campaign under Pope, which saw them reach the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2019. The team, a scrappy group of transfers and freshmen, defied expectations and stole the hearts of the Big Blue Nation before their run was cut short by a tough Tennessee team. Now, they’ll have two chances to avenge that loss, facing the Volunteers at home in Rupp Arena and on the road in Knoxville.
The most anticipated matchups on the schedule, however, will be against the Florida Gators. The Gators, under head coach Todd Golden, had a historic season that culminated in a thrilling run to their third-ever national championship. They overcame a 12-point second-half deficit to defeat Houston in the title game, capping off a tournament where they repeatedly proved their mettle. The Wildcats lead the all-time series against Florida with a dominant 111-42 record, but the Gators’ recent success makes these upcoming games particularly significant.
The home schedule for Kentucky is loaded with talent. It includes home contests against Georgia, Mississippi State, Missouri, Oklahoma, Ole Miss, and Texas. All of these teams made it to the 2025 NCAA Tournament, a testament to the SEC’s incredible depth and strength. Last season’s conference dominance saw a record number of teams make the NCAA Tournament, with multiple teams making deep runs.
The road slate is equally daunting. The Wildcats will travel to face Alabama, Arkansas, Auburn, LSU, South Carolina, and Texas A&M. The road trip to Arkansas will be especially notable, as it will pit Pope against his predecessor, John Calipari, in what is sure to be an emotional and highly-charged atmosphere. Auburn will also be a tough road test. The Tigers, led by SEC Player of the Year Johni Broome, had a historic 32-win season that ended with a Final Four loss to Florida. Facing a talented and motivated Auburn squad on their home court will be a major challenge for the Wildcats.
The full schedule, including game dates, times, and television details, is expected to be released at a later date. But with a schedule packed with elite competition, the 2025-26 season promises to be another thrilling chapter in Kentucky basketball history. The matchups are set, and the stage is now prepared for the to build on the foundation laid in Pope’s first season and compete for another SEC title and a deep run in March Madness.
