Get ready for a basketball season like no other! West Virginia University (WVU) is kicking off its 2025–26 Big 12 campaign under the bright lights of primetime, and fans are in for a treat. But here’s where it gets exciting: the Mountaineers’ schedule is packed with high-profile matchups that will have the entire college basketball world watching. And this is the part most people miss—WVU isn’t just playing; they’re making history as the Big 12 launches its new media era with broadcasts on ESPN, FOX, CBS, Peacock, and TNT.
The action starts on Friday, January 2, 2026, when WVU travels to Iowa State for the first Big 12 game of the new year, airing on ESPN2. Just four days later, the Mountaineers return home to the Coliseum for their conference debut against Cincinnati on January 6 at 7 p.m., also on ESPN2. But here’s the controversial part: with so many national appearances, will WVU’s schedule be a blessing or a curse? Some argue the exposure is priceless, while others worry about the toll of back-to-back high-stakes games.
Home games include showdowns with powerhouse teams like Kansas (January 10, FOX/FS1), Colorado (January 17, CBSSN), and Baylor (January 31, ESPN2). The Mountaineers will also host Texas Tech (February 8, FOX), Utah (February 18, FS1), and close out the regular season against UCF on March 6 (CBSSN). On the road, WVU faces tough opponents like Houston (January 13, FS1), Arizona State (January 21, Peacock), and Arizona (January 24, CBS).
Non-conference play isn’t taking a backseat either, with early-season clashes against Pitt (November 13, FS1), Wake Forest (December 6, ESPN2), and Ohio State (December 13, ESPNU). This slate ensures WVU will be a household name across every major network.
But here’s the question that’s dividing fans: Can the Mountaineers handle the pressure of this star-studded schedule? With so much visibility, every game becomes a statement opportunity—but also a potential pitfall. What do you think? Is this schedule a recipe for success or a setup for burnout? Let us know in the comments below!
