Auburn basketball is entering a new era. Stephen Pearl steps in for his father, Bruce, just weeks before the season tips off, inheriting a team coming off a Final Four run and massive expectations. The Tigers will have a fresh look in 2025–26, and their non-conference slate will test them immediately.
Early Home Stretch to Start the Season
Monday, November 3 – Bethune-Cookman
Stephen Pearl gets a manageable first test at home. Auburn should have no problem controlling the opener, allowing the new head coach to experiment with rotations and get comfortable on the sidelines.
Thursday, November 6 – Merrimack
Just a few days later, Auburn is back in action. This is another winnable matchup that gives the Tigers an opportunity to fine-tune before the schedule ramps up.
Tuesday, November 11 – Wofford
Wofford could provide more resistance, but Auburn’s depth should shine through. If the Tigers stay focused, they should cruise to 3-0 before their first major challenge.
Big-Time Showdown in Birmingham
Sunday, November 16 – vs. Houston (Birmingham)
Circle this one. The Tigers meet Houston in a rematch of last year’s Final Four matchup. Kelvin Sampson’s Cougars are physical and disciplined, and both teams enter the season with championship aspirations. Auburn edged Houston 74–69 last November, setting the stage for another thriller.
Final Home Game Before the Road Stretch
Wednesday, November 19 – Jackson State
A tune-up before a tough stretch of travel. Pearl could use this opportunity to get the bench extended minutes before heading to Las Vegas for a marquee event.
Thanksgiving Week in Las Vegas
Monday, November 24 – vs. Oregon (Las Vegas)
A holiday matchup with Dana Altman’s Ducks kicks off Auburn’s trip west. These two haven’t met since 2000, when Auburn won a high-scoring shootout 101–97. Expect plenty of fireworks in their rematch.
Tuesday, November 25 – vs. Michigan (Las Vegas)
One night later, the Tigers face Dusty May’s talented Michigan team. The Wolverines are expected to contend in the Big Ten and will be hungry for revenge after Auburn eliminated them in last year’s NCAA Tournament.
December Challenges Begin
Wednesday, December 3 – NC State
Will Wade brings a retooled NC State squad to town. The Wolfpack are aiming to climb the ACC ladder and could test Auburn’s perimeter defense. The Pack lead the all-time series 4–2, with the last meeting in 2019.
Saturday, December 6 – at Arizona
Auburn heads west again for a battle with Tommy Lloyd’s Arizona Wildcats, one of the Big 12’s top contenders. Auburn owns a 2–0 record all-time against Arizona, including a 73–57 win in 2018, but this trip won’t be easy.
Wrapping Up the Non-Conference Slate
Saturday, December 13 – vs. Chattanooga (Atlanta)
This neutral-site game should favor Auburn, though the Mocs will bring energy and fan support. Auburn dominated their last matchup, winning by 35.
Saturday, December 20 – vs. Purdue (Indianapolis)
Auburn’s third Big Ten opponent in a month might be its toughest. Matt Painter’s Boilermakers enter the season ranked No. 1, with elite guard play and size in the paint. Auburn crushed Purdue 87–69 last year but will be the underdog this time around.
Monday, December 29 – Queens
The final non-conference game of 2025 gives Auburn one last tune-up before SEC play begins. Pearl will use this matchup to solidify his rotation before diving into league play.
The Road Ahead
With showdowns against Houston, Oregon, Michigan, NC State, Arizona, and Purdue, Auburn’s non-conference schedule ranks among the nation’s toughest. It’s a trial by fire for Stephen Pearl, but if the Tigers can navigate this slate, they’ll be more than battle-tested by the time SEC play begins.