Kentucky basketball opens season against Manhattan Jaspers in November

The Kentucky Wildcats will begin their 2026-27 basketball season against the Manhattan Jaspers on November 3 in Rupp Arena. Following a disappointing 22-14 season that ended with a second-round exit in the NCAA Tournament, the Wildcats face a rigorous Southeastern Conference schedule starting January 2. With the SEC recently sending more teams to the NCAA Tournament than any other conference, Coach Mark Pope is focused on improving the team's defensive play and overall performance. The Wildcats aim for a return to prominence in March with the SEC Tournament scheduled for March 10-14 in Nashville.

• 12:06 AMYahoo Sports — Kentucky basketball's schedule sets stage for redemption