The 2026 Champions Classic tips off the college basketball season on Tuesday, November 10, 2026 at the United Center in Chicago, with Michigan State facing Duke and Kansas facing Kentucky. Download our free printable matchup card below and keep score for both games of the blue-blood doubleheader.
2026 Champions Classic Quick Facts
- When is the 2026 Champions Classic? Tuesday, November 10, 2026.
- Where is it played? The United Center in Chicago.
- What are the matchups? Michigan State vs Duke and Kansas vs Kentucky.
- What channel is it on? Both games air on ESPN, with tip times announced closer to the event.
- Which teams play in the Champions Classic? The same four blue-blood programs every year: Duke, Kansas, Kentucky, and Michigan State.
2026 Champions Classic Matchups
- Game 1: Michigan State vs Duke
- Game 2: Kansas vs Kentucky
The Champions Classic is the marquee season-opening event in men’s college basketball, pairing four of the sport’s blue bloods in a single-night doubleheader. The 2026 edition returns to Chicago’s United Center after the 2025 event at Madison Square Garden. Tip times and TV windows are confirmed closer to the season.
How to Watch
Both games air on ESPN. The event is a one-night doubleheader, so the two matchups are played back to back, and every game is available on the ESPN app.
More College Basketball
- 2026-27 Men’s College Basketball Schedule Hub
- 2026-27 Duke basketball schedule
- 2026-27 Kansas basketball schedule
- 2026-27 Michigan State basketball schedule
- 2026 Maui Invitational bracket
2026 Champions Classic FAQ
Who plays in the 2026 Champions Classic? Michigan State faces Duke and Kansas faces Kentucky in the November 10 doubleheader.
Where is the 2026 Champions Classic held? At the United Center in Chicago.
