UConn Women’s Basketball 2026 Schedule: South Carolina Rematch Highlights Season

The UConn women’s basketball team is gearing up for an exciting, challenging season, with a highly anticipated rematch against South Carolina at the top of the schedule. The Huskies are coming off a tough loss to the Gamecocks in last season’s NCAA semifinal, and they want to reclaim their dominance while adding another national championship to their storied history.

This season should bring intense matchups, high stakes, and plenty of drama. UConn will navigate a demanding nonconference schedule while trying to maintain its stronghold on the Big East.

UConn vs. South Carolina: A Rivalry Renewed

The highlight of UConn’s schedule is undoubtedly its clash with South Carolina on November 24 at Mohegan Sun. The game is part of the Hall of Fame Women’s Showcase and will tip off at 8 p.m.

The rivalry between these two powerhouses has stayed fierce, with UConn winning 11 of 17 meetings since 2008. South Carolina, though, has controlled the more recent matchups, including a victory in the 2022 national championship and a stunning upset in last season’s NCAA semifinal.

A Storied History

UConn and South Carolina have regularly met with high stakes on the line. The Huskies’ most recent triumph over the Gamecocks came in the 2025 NCAA final, when they secured their 12th national title.

The upcoming game isn’t just about revenge. It’s a chance for two elite programs to showcase their talent and determination on a national stage. Both teams should sit near the top of the preseason rankings, adding even more excitement to this already highly anticipated matchup.

A Tough Nonconference Schedule

Coach Geno Auriemma has assembled a formidable nonconference schedule to prepare the Huskies for the rigors of the season. UConn will face several top-tier opponents from power conferences, so the team should be battle-tested by the time the postseason arrives. Here are some key games to watch:

• Big Ten Opponents: UConn will play Michigan (Nov. 5), Ohio State (Nov. 12), Iowa (Nov. 8), and Maryland (Dec. 5).
• ACC Matchups: The Huskies will take on Louisville (Nov. 15), Duke (Nov. 28), and Notre Dame (Dec. 9).
• SEC Showdowns: In addition to South Carolina, UConn will face Tennessee (Dec. 12) and LSU (Dec. 20).

Preseason Tuneups

Before diving into that challenging nonconference slate, UConn will play several preseason games to fine-tune its strategies and rotations. Those matchups include Syracuse (Oct. 12), Texas (Oct. 19), and Army (Oct. 25).

These games should help the team build chemistry and get its newcomers comfortable in the system. That early work could matter once the schedule gets tougher.

Big East Dominance

Once the nonconference schedule ends, UConn will turn its attention to Big East play. The Huskies have dominated the conference since leaving the AAC in 2020, winning the regular-season and tournament titles every year.

This season, they’ll try to extend that streak and reinforce their status as the team to beat in the Big East.

Key Big East Games

UConn’s conference schedule includes several important matchups that will test the team. Some of the key games include:

• Seton Hall: The Huskies will open Big East play against Seton Hall on Nov. 20 in Hartford.
• Creighton: UConn will face Creighton twice, first at home on Dec. 16 and then on the road on Jan. 10.
• St. John’s: The Huskies will play St. John’s at Madison Square Garden on Jan. 24 and at home on Feb. 21.

Star Players and Newcomers

UConn’s success this season will depend on its star players and how quickly its highly touted newcomers fit in. National player of the year Sarah Strong leads the way, alongside returning standouts KK Arnold, Ashlynn Shade, and Blanca Quinonez.

Those players form the core of a team that looks ready to make a deep postseason run. Of course, staying healthy and finding the right combinations will be just as important.

Impactful Newcomers

Along with its returning stars, UConn has several newcomers who could make an immediate impact. They bring a mix of talent, versatility, and depth to the roster, giving Coach Auriemma plenty of options as he works through the season.

Their development and contributions will play a major role in the Huskies’ success. How quickly they adjust may shape the team’s ceiling.

Looking Ahead

As the season unfolds, UConn will chase its ultimate goal: another national championship. The demanding schedule, fierce rivalries, and high expectations will test the team, but the Huskies have the talent and determination to meet that challenge.

Fans can look forward to an exciting, memorable season of UConn women’s basketball.

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