Jackson State men’s basketball released its 2025-26 non-conference schedule Sept. 7.
The Tigers will play 13 non-SWAC games, with only one being at home. They will also play one exhibition game against Southern Miss in Jackson on Oct. 27.
JSU will begin its season Nov. 3 against Illinois, which received votes in the final 2024-25 USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll. The Tigers will play four other opponents that finished last season in the top 25, including No. 21 Louisville on Nov. 6, No. 4 Auburn on Nov. 19, No. 25 Arkansas on Nov. 21 and No. 2 Houston on Dec. 10.
Houston is the only returning non-conference opponent from last season. The Cougars beat the Tigers 97-40 in the season opener.
Jackson State’s lone home non-conference game is Nov. 23 against Winthrop.
The Tigers will also participate in the Chris Paul HBCU Classic in Atlanta on Dec. 18-19. They will play Hampton and Norfolk State as part of the event at Gateway Center.
Other non-conference opponents include Louisiana Tech, Louisiana-Lafayette, Kennesaw State, Northwestern and TCU.
Tia Reid covers Jackson State sports for the Clarion Ledger. Email her at treid@gannett.com and follow her on X @tiareid65.
