UNM Lobos Secure Exhibition Series with Oklahoma State, Rivalry Games Scheduled

Securing matchups with power conference teams has become a significant challenge for mid-major programs like the University of New Mexico (UNM) in college basketball. However, the Lobos have successfully announced a home-and-home exhibition series with Oklahoma State University, a member of the Big 12 Conference. The first game will take place in Stillwater, Oklahoma, on October 11, 2026, following the Cowboys' matchup against Central Florida. The return game is set for October 2027 at The Pit, as confirmed by public records obtained by the Journal.

This exhibition marks one of two potential preseason games for the Lobos this coming October, alongside a matchup against Washington State. Additionally, UNM has finalized a contract to kick off their regular season against Utah Tech on November 2 at The Pit, with the Trailblazers receiving $92,500 for the game.

In other scheduling news, the Lobos will face off against their in-state rivals, New Mexico State University, on December 5 at The Pit. This game is particularly significant as it falls one day after the Mountain West football championship, a game in which the Lobos hope to participate given the team's preseason optimism.

As of now, the Lobos' 2026-27 schedule includes the following confirmed games: an exhibition against Oklahoma State on October 11, an exhibition against Washington State on October 18, a season opener against Utah Tech on November 2, and several additional matchups through December.

The NCAA has allowed Division I teams to schedule up to three exhibition games and a maximum of 32 regular-season games this year. With two exhibition slots filled, the Lobos are on track to finalize their nonconference schedule in preparation for the upcoming season.

In a side note, several former Lobos are participating in The Basketball Tournament (TBT) this summer as part of the New Mexico-based team, The Enchantment. The team will compete in Wichita, Kansas, later this July.