Hailey
Missouri State men’s basketball, led by Head Coach Cuonzo Martin, has just announced the 11-game non-conference schedule for the 2025–26 season.
This part of the season takes place in November and December, with exciting matchups both at home and on the road.
The Bears will start with an exhibition game and dive into a mix of competitive challenges to warm up before entering Conference USA play. Let’s break down what to expect, when it will happen, and why it matters—all in clear, easy-to-read English.
Schedule Breakdown
Here’s how the 2025–26 non-conference games are lined up:
| Date | Opponent | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 31 | Maryville (Exhibition) | Home | Season opener |
| Nov 4 | Missouri Southern | Home | First regular game |
| Nov 8 | Northwestern Oklahoma St. | Home | |
| Nov 11 | Arkansas State | Home | Strong 2024–25 team, NIT co-champs |
| Nov 15 | UT Arlington | Away | Road challenge |
| Nov 22 | UTRGV | Home | Multi-team event with Illinois |
| Nov 24 | Long Island | Home | Part of the MTE event lineup |
| Nov 30 | Northeastern State | Home | Last November game |
| Dec 6 | Tulsa | Away | Triple-overtime rematch from last season |
| Dec 12 | Xavier | Away | NCAA tournament team in 2024–25 |
| Dec 16 | Oral Roberts | Home | Fourth straight year facing ORU |
| Dec 23 | Lindenwood | Home | In-state rival, second time in three years |
Why These Games Matter
- The exhibition against Maryville (Oct 31) helps the Bears get ready in front of home fans.
- Eight home games give the team lots of chances to perform in front of supporters at Great Southern Bank Arena.
- Facing tough teams like Arkansas State and Xavier pushes the team to improve early on.
- The MTE event featuring UTRGV and Long Island creates a mid-season buzz.
- Playing Tulsa again recalls last year’s epic triple-overtime thriller, building excitement.
- Wrapping up December with familiar foes puts tradition and rivalry front and center.
Additional Season Info
- Conference USA play starts with a road game at Delaware on Dec 29, followed by a home opener vs. UTEP on Jan 2.
- Coach Cuonzo Martin returns to Springfield for his second season, and he brings back key starters: Michael Osei-Bonsu, Zaxton King, and Logan Epes.
- The team also adds 11 newcomers—signaling a fresh, exciting mix of experience and new talent.
- Season tickets are available now—online, by phone, or in person.
- Game times and single-game tickets will be set later, so stay tuned.
This non-conference schedule sets Missouri State up for a strong start to the 2025–26 basketball season. With 11 games that mix friendly exhibition play and challenging matchups, the team will face a wide variety of opponents—some familiar and competitive.
Highlighted are key home games that bring fans into the arena, a showcase multi-team event, and a high-stakes rematch that promises excitement. Over the months of November and December, players and coaches can build momentum and chemistry as they enter the new world of Conference USA.
Supporters can already grab season tickets to witness every moment, and soon game times and single-ticket options will be available. With returning stars and fresh faces, this team looks ready for a bright and thrilling season ahead. Bears fans, get ready for an exciting winter of basketball!