The Memphis Tigers are set to kick off their 2026-27 basketball season with a thrilling matchup against Iowa State at the Sanford Pentagon in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. This announcement, made on March 11, adds another exciting chapter to what is shaping up to be a compelling nonconference schedule for Penny Hardaway's squad.
This isn't the first time these two teams have squared off. The last encounter was back in 2021, where Iowa State emerged victorious with a commanding 78-59 win. That game set a high bar, and fans can expect both teams to bring their A-game to this season opener.
Adding Iowa State to the schedule is just part of a broader strategy to challenge the Tigers early on. Just a day before this announcement, Memphis confirmed a matchup with Dayton on November 29, 2026, as part of a multi-year scheduling alliance between the Atlantic 10 and American conferences. This alliance is designed to bring high-quality matchups to the forefront, and Memphis is diving right in.
In addition to Iowa State and Dayton, the Tigers have a series of intriguing games lined up. They'll host Louisville on November 15 and Utah State on a date yet to be determined. On the road, they'll face Texas on December 16, along with trips to Baylor and Vanderbilt, both awaiting final dates.
Iowa State, under the guidance of coach T.J. Otzelberger, has been a force to reckon with, winning at least 25 games in each of the past three seasons and consistently making the NCAA Tournament. They're projected to make another March Madness appearance this year, which only adds to the anticipation of their clash with Memphis.
Memphis fans might recall their team's last appearance at the Sanford Pentagon during the Crossover Classic in 2020. It was a roller-coaster ride where they defeated Saint Mary's but fell short against Western Kentucky and VCU. That experience will surely fuel the Tigers as they return to this venue.
Before diving into the new season, the Tigers are focused on the immediate task at hand: the American Conference Tournament. They'll face Tulane in a first-round showdown at Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Alabama, on March 11. It's a pivotal moment for Memphis as they look to make a strong postseason run.
With a challenging schedule and high expectations, the Tigers are poised for an exciting season. Fans should buckle up for a journey filled with high-stakes games and unforgettable moments.