The Kentucky-Indiana rivalry dates back to 1904, with the two teams meeting 57 times. Kentucky leads the all-time series 32-25. The rivalry has been marked by intense matchups, including NCAA Tournament games and regular-season contests that have captivated fans across the nation. The most recent regular-season meeting occurred in 2011, when Indiana’s Christian Watford hit a buzzer-beating three-pointer to give the Hoosiers a 73-72 victory in Bloomington.A Sea Of Blue+3On3+3UK Athletics+3UK Athletics+2WLKY+2On3+2
Since then, the teams have faced each other only twice, both times in the NCAA Tournament—Kentucky won in 2012, while Indiana prevailed in 2016. The renewed series aims to restore the annual tradition of this rivalry, alternating between Rupp Arena, Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, and Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall in Bloomington.WLKY+4Indiana University Athletics+4UK Athletics+4
In addition to the Indiana game, Kentucky has announced several other non-conference matchups for the 2025-26 season:
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November 21, 2025: Kentucky vs. Loyola University Maryland at Rupp Arena
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November 26, 2025: Kentucky vs. Tennessee Tech at Rupp Arena
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December 9, 2025: Kentucky vs. North Carolina Central at Rupp Arena
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December 13, 2025: Kentucky vs. Indiana at Rupp Arena
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December 23, 2025: Kentucky vs. Bellarmine at Rupp ArenaA Sea Of Blue+1On3+1
These games provide a mix of competition levels, with matchups against both mid-major and high-major programs. The Indiana game, in particular, stands out as a marquee event that will draw national attention.
Rupp Arena, located in downtown Lexington, is one of college basketball’s most iconic venues. With a seating capacity of over 20,000, it has hosted numerous memorable games and is known for its electric atmosphere. Hosting the Kentucky-Indiana game at Rupp Arena ensures that fans will experience a charged environment befitting the magnitude of the rivalry.Indiana University Athletics+1WLKY+1UK Athletics
The 2025-26 season sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting chapter in the Kentucky-Indiana rivalry. Both programs have rich histories and passionate fan bases, and their renewed competition will undoubtedly add to the legacy of this storied matchup. As the season approaches, fans can look forward to a thrilling contest that will reignite one of college basketball’s most cherished rivalries.
