2025-26 Canisius Women’s Basketball Non-Conference Schedule Announced
Canisius head coach Tiffany Swoffard just dropped the Golden Griffins’ 2025-26 non-conference schedule, and it’s got fans buzzing. This season’s a big deal—it marks the 50th anniversary of the women’s basketball program.
There are nine non-league games lined up, with four of them happening at the Koessler Athletic Center. The Griffs look set for some intense matchups, from old-school rivalries to clashes against teams from eight different conferences. It’s shaping up to be a wild, unpredictable ride.
Key Highlights of the 2025-26 Non-Conference Schedule
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Coach Swoffard really went all out, putting together a schedule that’s anything but easy. The action starts with an exhibition game against Lock Haven on October 23.
Historic Season Opener Against Michigan
November 4 is the official tip-off, and it’s a big one: Canisius faces Michigan. It’s the first time the Griffs have ever opened a season against a Big 10 team.
Plus, this opener is happening earlier than any other in program history. That alone makes it stand out.
Home Opener Against Eastern Michigan
The first home game lands on November 7, with Eastern Michigan coming to the Koessler Athletic Center. This one’s got a twist—former Canisius head coach Sahar Nusseibeh now leads the Eastern Michigan squad.
Nusseibeh ran the Griffs from 2021 to 2024, so this reunion has a little extra spice.
Road Games and Rivalries
November’s going to keep the team busy and on the move. The Griffs hit the road for a string of tough games.
Matchup with Syracuse
On November 11, Canisius heads to Syracuse. It’s the 14th time these teams have met, a rivalry that stretches back to 1979-80.
They haven’t faced each other since December 2014, so there’s a bit of anticipation here.
Just three days later, November 14, the Griffs travel to Olean, N.Y., for a game with St. Bonaventure. This will be the 59th meeting between the two, dating back to 1975-76.
No other non-league opponent has played Canisius more often. It’s always a big deal.
New Opponents and Historic Firsts
It’s not all about old rivals. The Griffs will also take on some fresh faces this season.
First-Time Matchups in Ohio
On November 21, Canisius visits Dayton for the first time ever. Right after, they’re off to Cincinnati to play the Bearcats.
That Cincinnati matchup is a milestone—it’s their first game against a Big 12 team since Texas in December 2015.
Home Game Against Mercyhurst
The Griffs wrap up November at home against Mercyhurst on November 30. Mercyhurst just made the jump to NCAA Division I and now plays in the Northeast Conference.
It’s only the fourth meeting between these schools, and the first since Canisius beat the Lakers in 1986. That’s a long gap.
Final Non-Conference Game
On December 12, Canisius hosts Wright State for their last non-conference game. The Griffs lead the all-time series 5-2.
They haven’t played each other since December 2007, so there’s some curiosity about how this one will go.
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Looking Ahead to the MAAC Schedule
The full 2025-26 Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) slate should drop soon. Like last season, it’s an unbalanced 20-game run starting in December.
Everything leads up to the 2026 MAAC Women’s Basketball Championship tournament, set for March 5-10 at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J.
Season Tickets and Fan Engagement
Thinking about snagging season tickets? Now’s the time. The Griffs are gearing up for a season packed with wild matchups and some unforgettable milestones.
Honestly, if you’re a Canisius basketball fan, you probably don’t want to sit this one out.
Curious about the 2025-26 non-conference schedule? Head over to the official Canisius Athletics website for the latest details.
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