Miami to Open Season Against Florida in Tampa

TAMPA, Fla. – Coming off a historic 2025-26 campaign, the University of Miami men’s basketball team will open the 2026-27 season against Florida on Nov. 2 inside Benchmark International Arena as part of the Orion180 Tip-Off Classic.

The game, which will tip off at 6 p.m., will air nationally on ESPN2 on the opening night of college basketball.

“Miami and Florida is a matchup that means a lot to people across the state,” head coach Jai Lucas said. “To have the opportunity to open the season in Tampa, in front of both fan bases, is something we’re really excited about. It’s great for our program, great for our fans and great for college basketball.”

Miami is coming off a stellar first season under Lucas, tying the NCAA record for the largest turnaround after finishing 26-9. The Hurricanes earned the No. 3 seed in the ACC Tournament following a 13-5 conference record and advanced to the second round of the NCAA Tournament as a No. 7 seed.

Tickets for the Orion180 Tip-Off Classic will go on sale beginning at 10 a.m. on June 8 and will be available online at ticketmaster.com. Premium hospitality packages, courtside seating, suites, and group sales opportunities will also be available. Advanced parking passes can be purchased through ParkWhiz.com.

For additional event information, visit benchmarkintlarena.com or call 813-301-2500.