In a move that rekindles one of college basketball’s most storied rivalries, the University of Louisville men’s basketball program has officially announced a six-year home-and-home series with the University of Memphis, set to begin in the 2025–26 season. This highly anticipated agreement marks the return of a competitive and emotionally charged matchup that dates back more than 70 years, bringing renewed excitement to fans of both programs.
The series will feature three games hosted by Louisville at the KFC Yum! Center and three held at Memphis’s FedExForum, providing equal opportunity for both fanbases to witness the clash of two historic basketball programs. The agreement signals a strong commitment by both schools to revitalize traditional rivalries, a move that has become increasingly rare in the age of conference realignment and evolving NCAA scheduling priorities.
The rivalry between Louisville and Memphis is deeply embedded in the history of college basketball. The two programs have faced off 90 times, with Louisville holding a 54–36 lead in the all-time series. The teams shared multiple conference affiliations in the past, including time spent together in the Missouri Valley Conference, Metro Conference, Conference USA, and the American Athletic Conference. Their last meeting occurred in December 2017 at Madison Square Garden, where Louisville defeated Memphis 81–72 in a neutral-site game that left fans longing for more regular showdowns.
The announcement of the six-year series was met with widespread enthusiasm from both fanbases, as well as from coaches and players who recognize the importance of tradition in college athletics. Louisville head coach Pat Kelsey, who took the reins of the program in 2024, has made a strong impression in his short tenure, emphasizing player development and the restoration of the program’s competitive edge. Under his leadership, Louisville quickly returned to national relevance, and this series represents another step in building a tough, nationally respected schedule.
Meanwhile, Memphis remains under the guidance of Penny Hardaway, a beloved alumnus and former NBA star who has helped elevate the program’s stature since taking over as head coach. Hardaway’s Tigers have consistently been competitive in the American Athletic Conference and have made significant strides in recruiting and postseason performance. The opportunity to face a traditional rival like Louisville is expected to bring additional national exposure and strengthen the team’s non-conference schedule.
Both programs see this renewed series as a way to reignite a competitive spark while offering fans thrilling, high-stakes basketball. Each game in the series will be an opportunity for bragging rights and national recognition, with the possibility of influencing NCAA Tournament seeding and rankings.
In an era where college basketball is often driven by business decisions and shifting alliances, the decision by Louisville and Memphis to commit to a long-term rivalry series is a refreshing nod to the sport’s roots. Fans can now look forward to a new chapter in a historic rivalry, one that promises intensity, tradition, and unforgettable moments over the next six seasons.
