Full Breakdown
ESPN Unveils 2025-26 College Basketball Schedule Featuring Key Matchups
10/2/2025, 6:48:15 PM
Overview of the ESPN on ABC Lineup
ESPN has announced its lineup for the 2025-26 college basketball season on ABC, showcasing 11 marquee matchups across both women's and men's divisions. The schedule highlights 16 ranked teams, with 10 of the 11 games featuring ranked opponents. Notably, the women's schedule includes seven top-10 preseason teams, including No. 1 South Carolina, No. 4 Texas, and No. 5 LSU.
Key Matchups and Dates
The schedule features several significant games:
- December 14: Women’s game between No. 16 Baylor and No. 4 Texas.
- February 1: Men’s matchup of No. 17 Alabama at No. 2 Florida, and women’s game of No. 6 Oklahoma at No. 4 Texas.
- February 8: Women’s game featuring No. 7 Tennessee at No. 1 South Carolina.
- February 14: A highly anticipated Valentine’s Day doubleheader, including No. 21 Kansas at No. 18 Iowa State and No. 9 Kentucky at No. 2 Florida, followed by the primetime women’s game of No. 1 South Carolina at No. 5 LSU.
- February 15: Women’s rivalry game between No. 10 North Carolina and No. 8 Duke.
Significance of the South Carolina vs. LSU Matchup
The February 14 game between South Carolina and LSU is particularly noteworthy as it will air in primetime at 8:30 p.m. ET. This matchup features two of the last four national champions and is expected to draw significant viewership. South Carolina has dominated this rivalry, winning the last 17 meetings. The game also marks the first time former Gamecock player MiLaysia Fulwiley will face her old team after transferring to LSU.
Official Statements & Responses
Dawn Staley, head coach of South Carolina, expressed enthusiasm about the exposure for women's basketball, stating, "Having our games on ABC is a testament to the growth of the sport." Meanwhile, Kim Mulkey, head coach of LSU, highlighted the importance of such high-profile matchups, noting, "These games are crucial for the visibility and competitiveness of women's basketball."
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the excitement surrounding the schedule, some critics argue that the limited number of primetime slots for women's games reflects ongoing disparities in media coverage compared to men's basketball. Advocates for women's sports continue to call for more equitable broadcasting opportunities.
What's Next
As the season approaches, anticipation builds for these key matchups, particularly the South Carolina vs. LSU game, which could have significant implications for the SEC standings and national rankings. The full broadcast schedule for the season is expected to be finalized soon, with fans eager to see how these teams perform in the spotlight.
