Kentucky basketball’s non-conference schedule for the 2025–26 season just got even deeper — and more compelling. Head coach Mark Pope has added five new opponents, including a marquee showdown against Indiana and a sentimental homecoming for former Wildcat John Pelphrey, now leading Tennessee Tech.
The most notable addition is the renewal of the storied rivalry with Indiana, which will make its long-awaited return to Rupp Arena. The two programs last met in Lexington in 2011, and while the rivalry has cooled over the past decade, its return is sure to stir passion on both sides. The Hoosiers, led by head coach Mike Woodson, bring a mix of tradition and intensity that aligns perfectly with the competitive edge Pope has instilled in his team.
Also on the docket is a matchup that’s more heartwarming than headline-grabbing: John Pelphrey and Tennessee Tech. Pelphrey, a key figure in Kentucky’s “Unforgettables” team of the early 1990s, will return to Rupp Arena — this time on the opposite bench. His legacy as both a player and ambassador of the program ensures this game will be more than just another non-conference tilt. It will be a celebration of Kentucky basketball’s deep roots and lasting influence.
Beyond Indiana and Tennessee Tech, Kentucky will face UNC Asheville, Murray State, and Western Kentucky. While these programs may not command national attention, they each present unique challenges. Murray State and Western Kentucky, in particular, are among the most competitive mid-majors in the region and have the potential to test Kentucky’s depth and discipline early in the season.
These additions complement an already formidable non-conference schedule that includes Gonzaga, Michigan State, and Louisville. It’s clear that Pope is not shying away from tough competition — a strategy that not only prepares his team for the grind of SEC play but also appeals to fans eager for meaningful early-season matchups.
Kentucky’s approach under Pope reflects a blend of tradition, competitiveness, and storytelling. The Indiana rivalry brings history and emotion back to the forefront. Pelphrey’s return taps into the program’s proud past. And the inclusion of in-state and regional opponents maintains Kentucky’s long-standing commitment to basketball in the Commonwealth.
In total, these five additions shape a narrative-rich non-conference slate that balances legacy, rivalry, and strategic growth. For a program with a championship pedigree and a fanbase that demands excellence, these matchups offer more than wins and losses — they provide moments, meaning, and momentum.
As Pope’s first full season begins to take shape, it’s evident that Kentucky basketball isn’t just building a schedule. It’s building anticipation.
