ESPN Announces 2026 College Basketball Big Monday Schedule Featuring Top ACC and Big 12 Teams

What's Happening?

ESPN has released its 2026 men's college basketball Big Monday schedule, showcasing six weeks of doubleheaders featuring high-level conference clashes in the ACC and Big 12. The schedule includes 10 of the top-25 teams in the country, according to ESPN's Way Too Early rankings. Starting January 26, ESPN will broadcast marquee matchups in the ACC at 7 p.m. ET and Big 12 at 9 p.m. ET, continuing through March 2. Notable teams featured include No. 3 Houston, No. 6 BYU, No. 10 Texas Tech, No. 13 Arizona, No. 18 Iowa State, and No. 21 Kansas from the Big 12, alongside No. 7 Louisville, No. 12 Duke, No. 24 NC State, and No. 25 North Carolina from the ACC.

Why It's Important?

The Big Monday schedule is a significant part of ESPN's college basketball coverage, providing fans with access to some of the most competitive and anticipated matchups of the season. This lineup not only highlights the strength and depth of the ACC and Big 12 conferences but also sets the stage for potential postseason implications. The inclusion of top-ranked teams and high-profile games underscores ESPN's commitment to delivering premier sports content, enhancing viewer engagement and anticipation for the college basketball season.

What's Next?

As the season progresses, fans can expect intense competition and potential shifts in team rankings based on the outcomes of these matchups. The games could influence seeding and positioning for the NCAA tournament, making each matchup crucial for the teams involved. ESPN will continue to announce additional details and schedules for the 2025-26 men's college basketball season, providing comprehensive coverage across its networks.

Beyond the Headlines

The Big Monday franchise has been a staple of ESPN's college basketball coverage since 1987, consistently showcasing intraconference matchups from the best teams and leagues in the country. This tradition not only enhances the visibility of college basketball but also contributes to the sport's cultural significance and fanbase growth.