Women's college basketball season begins with Notre Dame vs. Villanova in Rome
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 15, 2026, 5:25 PM
Last updated Sep 15, 2026

The 2026-27 women's college basketball season starts on Nov. 1 with a game between Notre Dame and Villanova in Rome, Italy. This matchup marks the first regular-season game for women's college basketball held in Italy. Hannah Hidalgo, an All-American and reigning ACC Player of the Year, leads Notre Dame, while Villanova is directed by head coach Denise Dillon and features standout Jasmine Bascoe. Following this opening game, the traditional season start on Nov. 2 will see a full schedule, including notable matchups in Europe.
- •Notre Dame faces Villanova on Nov. 1 at 12 p.m. ET.
- •Hannah Hidalgo averaged 25.3 points last season for Notre Dame.
- •Jasmine Bascoe led Villanova with 18.9 points per game last season.
- •Teams will play additional games in Europe on Nov. 2.
- •The NCAA Tournament field expands to 76 teams this year.
- 5:25 PMYahoo Sports — When does the 2026-27 women’s college basketball season start?
"The 2026-27 women's college basketball season begins on Nov. 1 in Rome, Italy. Hannah Hidalgo's Notre Dame takes on Jasmine Bascoe's Villanova.
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