Dusty May has the Maize and Blue faithful buzzing about the upcoming basketball season. After a couple of disappointing years, Michigan looks poised to climb back into the national picture. Their 2025-26 non-conference slate isn’t the most grueling in college basketball, but it offers plenty of chances to measure how far the Wolverines have come. Here’s a look at their non-conference schedule:
Monday, November 3 – vs. Oakland
The Wolverines open the season in Ann Arbor against an in-state foe that always plays with grit. The Golden Grizzlies will come in hungry for an upset, but Michigan’s size and depth should carry the night.
Tuesday, November 11 – vs. Wake Forest (Detroit)
A neutral-site game that’s not so neutral. The Wolverines will enjoy a heavy fan advantage in Detroit as they seek their first-ever win over Wake Forest. The Demon Deacons edged Michigan by two last season, adding a little extra motivation.
Friday, November 14 – at TCU
The Wolverines travel south for a rematch with the Horned Frogs. Michigan won last year’s meeting, and TCU will be eager to return the favor on its home floor. A clash of Big Ten and Big 12 styles should make this one a fascinating early-season test.
Wednesday, November 19 – vs. Middle Tennessee
Back home at Crisler Center, Michigan gets a breather after consecutive road and neutral games. Expect a comfortable win for the Wolverines as they continue to fine-tune rotations.
Monday, November 24 – vs. San Diego State (Las Vegas)
Michigan’s first Vegas matchup brings a sneaky-tough opponent. San Diego State’s physical defense and tournament pedigree make this one dangerous if the Wolverines aren’t sharp.
Tuesday, November 25 – vs. Auburn (Las Vegas)
A quick turnaround and a personal matchup. Auburn ended Michigan’s season in March, and now Dusty May’s squad seeks revenge under the bright lights of Vegas. This will be just the second-ever meeting between the two programs.
Tuesday, December 9 – vs. Villanova
Two proud programs renew a brief but memorable rivalry. Villanova has taken three of four from Michigan, including a 2022 NCAA Tournament win. Expect a packed Crisler crowd and plenty of emotion in this one.
Sunday, December 21 – vs. La Salle
A pre-holiday tune-up against a rebuilding Atlantic 10 squad gives Michigan a chance to regroup before heading into late December play.
Monday, December 29 – vs. McNeese
The Wolverines close out the calendar year with a manageable home game that should help solidify confidence before Big Ten play begins.
Saturday, February 21 – vs. Duke (Washington, D.C.)
An unusual mid-conference clash, but one fans will circle on the calendar. Michigan and Duke renew their rivalry for the 29th time, with the Blue Devils holding a commanding 21-7 edge. Their last meeting came in 2013, a 10-point Duke win. This neutral-site battle could have major seeding implications come March.
Michigan’s non-conference schedule offers a strong mix of mid-major tune-ups, high-profile rematches, and historic rivalries. Dusty May’s squad has the pieces to make noise in the Big Ten and beyond, if they can navigate this balanced early test with poise and purpose.