College basketball regular season set to expand from 31 to 32 games

Michael Brauner

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June 25, 2025

A major announcement is brewing regarding college basketball scheduling.

As first reported by Matt Norlander of CBS Sports, the number of games each team plays in the regular season is set to increase from 31 to 32. The change will give programs an extra non-conference matchup against an opponent of their choosing.

“College basketball’s regular season is set to expand,” Norlander wrote. “Barring an unexpected and extremely unlikely motion to vote against, the NCAA Division I Council will approve on Wednesday an increase from 31 to 32 games, beginning with the 2026-27 season, sources told CBS Sports.”

Interestingly, Norlander also mentioned the possibility of allowing teams to schedule non-conference games in January or February during their conference schedule, potentially giving teams like Auburn and Alabama a chance to get a look at non-SEC teams.

The slate of 18 conference games will remain the same, but with both Nate Oats and Bruce Pearl known to schedule tough non-conference matchups, it’s safe to say we could see some more marquee matchups featuring SEC teams.

The rule would not go into effect until the 2026-27 season and still has to be formally approved.

Michael Brauner is a Senior Sports Analyst and Contributing Writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @MBraunerWNSP and hear him every weekday morning from 6 to 9 a.m. on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5, available free online.