Indiana-Kentucky basketball rivalry shifted to November to avoid Colts conflict

BLOOMINGTON — Indiana University’s men’s basketball game against the University of Kentucky has a new date for the upcoming season.

It was announced on Tuesday that the Hoosiers and Wildcats will now play on Friday, Nov. 20, 2026, inside Lucas Oil Stadium.

The matchup was originally scheduled to take place Sunday, Dec. 27, 2026, inside Lucas Oil Stadium.

Another event may be taking place inside the venue on Dec. 27. That’s because the Colts host the Bengals that weekend, although the specific day and time of that game has yet to be determined.

Last year, the Wildcats beat the Hoosiers in the return of the rivalry in a contest that was played in Rupp Arena.

Following the 2026 matchup, there are two other matchups locked in for the rivalry:

  • Dec. 18, 2027 – Rupp Arena
  • Dec. 16, 2028 – Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall

Kentucky leads the all-time series against IU with a 33-25 record.