LAKE CHARLES – Road games to Michigan, Rhode Island and Santa Clara, a home contest against longtime rival Louisiana-Lafayette, and the already announced participation at the Cayman Islands Classic, highlights McNeese's 2025-26 men's basketball non-conference schedule.
The season will get underway for the two-time defending Southland Conference regular season and tournament champion Cowboys and under first year head coach Bill Armstrong on November 3 at home against Champion Christian. That will be followed with a Nov. 7 visit to Santa Clara, a return trip from last year when McNeese hosted the Broncos.
McNeese will return home for a Nov. 10 matchup against Biblical Studies then on Nov. 14, will welcome back ULL on Joe Dumars Court. November 23-25, the Cowboys will take part in the Cayman Islands Classic where they'll go up against George Washington, Murray State and Middle Tennessee.
The Cowboys will visit Rhode Island on December 9 and will play at Michigan on Dec. 29 for the second matchup in three years.
"We're excited to finalize our 2025-2026 schedule, which we believe will be both challenging and rewarding for our team," said Armstrong. "We'll face several programs with legitimate postseason aspirations and the potential to win their leagues. The opportunity to compete in the Cayman Islands Classic is one our team will truly enjoy, as it will test us against high-level competition. Our road matchup at Michigan is a highlight, not only because Coach Dusty May is a great friend, but also because many basketball analysts consider them a Final Four favorite.
"Within our own league, the schedule is well-balanced, and we know every night will bring a tough, competitive battle."
The Southland Conference slate was released last week. McNeese will open defense of its title on Dec. 1 at UIW then will host Northwestern State on Dec. 5. Two more league games will be played in December as well – home against East Texas A&M (Dec. 12) and at HCU on Dec. 15.
McNeese will once again host the Southland Conference Basketball Tournament March 8-11.
In the last two championship seasons, McNeese has compiled a 58-11 overall record which includes a 33-1 mark at home and 36-2 in league play.
Season tickets will go on sale Monday at the Jack Doland Field House Ticket Office and online at McNeeseSports.com.
