2025-26 College Basketball Season: Notable Games To Watch on FOX, FS1, More

Illinois kicked off its 2025-26 basketball season with an impressive win, showcasing the strength of its new rotation. This strong start not only boosts team morale but also sets a promising tone for the rest of the season, making fans excited about what lies ahead.

The Clemson Tigers kicked off their basketball season with an impressive 50-point victory against the New Hampshire Wildcats, winning 88-38. This dominant performance not only showcases the team's potential but also excites fans as they look forward to the rest of the season. With senior guard Dillon Hunter leading the way, the Tigers demonstrated their strength and set a positive tone for the games ahead.

The No. 7 Michigan Wolverines delivered an impressive performance by scoring a school-record 69 points in the first half, ultimately defeating Oakland 121-78. Morez Johnson Jr. shone brightly, contributing 20 of his career-high 24 points during this record-breaking half. This victory not only highlights Michigan's offensive prowess but also sets a new benchmark for first-half scoring, surpassing the previous record of 66 points from 1987. Such achievements are crucial as they build momentum for the season and showcase the team's potential.

Luka Bogavac made a successful debut with the UNC Tar Heels, contributing to a victory that also marked the resolution of his eligibility issues. This win is significant not only for the team's morale but also for Bogavac's career, as it showcases his potential and the importance of overcoming challenges in collegiate sports.

Cade Tyson's impressive 30-point performance led the Minnesota team to a strong 87-60 victory over Gardner-Webb in Medved's debut as head coach. This win not only showcases Tyson's talent but also sets a positive tone for the season ahead, highlighting the team's potential and Medved's coaching capabilities.

Kelvin Sampson achieved a remarkable milestone by earning his 800th career win as the head coach of the University of Houston, leading the No. 2 ranked team to a solid 75-57 victory over Lehigh. This achievement not only highlights Sampson's dedication and skill in college basketball but also reinforces Houston's position as a powerhouse in the sport. Fans and players alike are celebrating this significant moment in the program's history, marking a new chapter of success.

Penn State kicked off their basketball season with a hard-fought victory over Fairfield, winning 76-68. Despite being favored, the Nittany Lions faced a tough challenge from the Stags, who were 15-point underdogs. The game showcased Penn State's resilience as they rallied late to secure the win, highlighting their determination and grit. This victory is significant as it sets a positive tone for the season ahead, demonstrating the team's ability to perform under pressure.

Seton Hall basketball fans have reason to celebrate as Najai Hines made a stunning debut in their season opener against Saint Peter's. The Pirates showcased significant improvement, hinting at a promising season ahead. Hines' performance not only highlights his potential as a budding star but also raises expectations for the team's future. This game marks an exciting start for the Pirates, and fans are eager to see how the season unfolds.

The Los Angeles Dodgers are celebrating Clayton Kershaw as a 'champion for life' while setting their sights on a remarkable third consecutive World Series title. This recognition not only honors Kershaw's incredible contributions to the team but also highlights the Dodgers' ambition and determination to maintain their winning streak. As they embark on this new season, fans are excited to see how the team will build on their past successes and strive for greatness once again.

Rick Pitino's St. John's basketball team kicked off a highly-anticipated season with a decisive win over Quinnipiac. After leading the Red Storm to their first outright Big East title in 25 years, Pitino continues to emphasize honesty and improvement, even after victories. This approach not only sets high expectations for the team but also highlights the importance of maintaining performance as they aim for another successful NCAA Tournament run.

Jake Paul didn't hold back in his criticism of Gervonta Davis following the cancellation of their anticipated fight on Netflix. He labeled Davis as 'an actual walking human piece of garbage' and expressed his refusal to give a platform to someone he accuses of being a woman abuser. This outburst highlights the ongoing tensions in the boxing world and raises questions about the impact of personal conduct on professional opportunities.

In an impressive debut, Atak scored 18 points, helping Oklahoma secure a dominant 102-66 victory over St. Francis. The team's performance was bolstered by strong contributions from Xzayvier Brown, Nijel Pack, and Mohamed Wague, each scoring 16 points. This win not only showcases Oklahoma's talent but also sets a positive tone for the season ahead, highlighting the potential of their new players.

In an impressive display of teamwork and skill, Vanderbilt's basketball team dominated Lipscomb with a staggering 105-61 victory, led by standout player Nickel who scored 20 points. This game is significant as it showcases Vanderbilt's depth, with five players reaching double digits in scoring, indicating a strong offensive strategy that could set the tone for the rest of the season.

Michigan State basketball has made it to the final list for a highly sought-after five-star prospect in the 2026 class. This is significant as it highlights the program's strong recruiting efforts and potential to attract top talent, which could enhance their competitiveness in future seasons.