Minnesota to face California in men's basketball at Sanford Pentagon next season
Posted: June 23, 2026
The University of Minnesota and the University of California will square off in a men’s basketball game on Saturday, November 28 at the Sanford Pentagon. Game time, broadcast information, and ticket sales will be determined at a later date.
“This is a tremendous matchup between two up-and-coming teams who ended last season strong,” Jesse Smith, vice president of Sanford Sports, said. “We’re grateful to our friends and partners at the University of Minnesota for coming back to the Pentagon and we’re excited to welcome the University of California to Sioux Falls for the first time. This will be an excellent showcase for the players, coaches, and fans over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.”
Minnesota will be returning to the Pentagon for the second straight year and fifth time overall. Last season, under first-year head coach Niko Medved, the Gophers secured three Top 25 wins and participated in the College Basketball Crown postseason tournament in Las Vegas.
"The Sanford Pentagon does a tremendous job of bringing top-notch sporting events to its community and giving the area exciting games to watch," Coach Medved said. "We're thrilled to be participating in another first-class matchup for the second year in a row. Minnesota had a great fan turnout last season, and we're looking forward to seeing maroon and gold in the stands again this year."
California will be making its first appearance in the Rushmore State. The Bears are coming off their first 20-plus win season in nearly a decade, going 22-12 in the 2025-26 campaign and reaching the 2nd round of the NIT under head coach and two-time NBA champion Mark Madsen.
"It's exciting for Cal to face a program like Minnesota on a major stage like this in Sioux Falls,” Coach Madsen said. “The Pentagon has been a showcase for top-tier basketball, and we are looking forward to being a part of the experience. We appreciate the opportunity and hope fans enjoy watching the Bears in action!"
November’s contest will be the 7th all-time meeting between Minnesota and California and first in more than 30 years. The Golden Bears are 4-2 all-time vs. the Golden Gophers, including a win in their last matchup 70-67 on Dec. 16, 1995.
