The UConn Huskies will tip off their highly anticipated 2025-26 men’s basketball season with a historic matchup against the University of New Haven Chargers on Nov. 3. This season opener marks a major milestone for both Connecticut programs.
The matchup carries extra significance as New Haven begins its transition to NCAA Division I basketball after years of success at the Division II level. For UConn, this home opener signals the start of another title chase.
UConn Basketball: 2025-2026 Season Opener Confirmed by NCAA Insider
NCAA basketball insider Jon Rothstein confirmed the Nov. 3 date on X, creating plenty of buzz among college hoops fans. The post spotlighted this unique opener between two in-state programs, setting the stage for New Haven’s first-ever Division I contest against a high-major opponent.
Source: UConn will open the 2025-26 college basketball season on November 3rd against New Haven.
— Jon Rothstein (@JonRothstein) June 7, 2025
UConn finished 24-11 last season and reached the NCAA Tournament’s second round before falling to Florida. The Huskies went 14-6 in Big East play, placing third in the conference after entering the year with sky-high expectations following back-to-back national championships.
New Haven went 12-17 in its final Division II season, posting a 7-13 record in the Northeast-10. The Chargers’ year ended in the conference tournament’s first round with a loss to Saint Michael’s.
UConn enters the new season with championship expectations and a stacked roster featuring a mix of returning stars and high-end transfers. Alex Karaban returns as a redshirt senior to anchor the frontcourt. Georgia transfer Silas Demary Jr. brings proven guard play, while Solo Ball and freshman Braylon Mullins add depth to the backcourt.
The Huskies have size and versatility across the lineup. Center Tarris Reed Jr. gives them a strong interior presence, with wings Jaylin Stewart and Jayden Ross providing two-way ability. This group puts UConn right back in the mix as one of the top programs in the country.
RELATED: Ranking the Last 10 College Basketball Seasons From Best to Worst
New Haven makes the trip to Storrs during a turning point for the program. The Chargers officially moved to NCAA Division I, joining the Northeast Conference after decades of competing at a high level in Division II, highlighted by an Elite Eight run in 2023.
This game reflects the different paths each program is on. UConn operates at the top of college basketball with NBA-level talent and national title ambitions. New Haven, meanwhile, is just beginning its Division I climb under longtime head coach Ted Hotaling. Guards Mohamed Traore and Keith Warren will help lead that transition.
University President Jens Frederiksen captured the moment, saying, “This move to the Northeast Conference and Division I positions the University for an exciting future – one consistent with the overall strategic focus on academic, professional and global return on investment.”
For New Haven, going up against UConn is the ultimate test as they begin life in Division I. The Chargers bring two decades of Division II success with them, including a women’s national title in 1987 and a baseball program that’s made 28 NCAA Regional appearances.
UConn comes in as the clear favorite, with more talent and a proven culture. But for New Haven, this game is about proving they belong and setting the tone for the future as they step onto the big stage.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights and trending stories in college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
