Syracuse and UConn Renew Rivalry in Exhibition Matchup

The Syracuse Orange and UConn Huskies will meet Tuesday at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut, with Syracuse coach Gerry McNamara facing his former rival as both men's basketball teams open their exhibition schedules before the 2026-27 season.

The matchup marks another chapter in a series that includes six-overtime games, Big East tournament battles and 95 all-time meetings between the programs. According to the source, Syracuse holds a 56-39 advantage in the series.

UConn has won three of the last five meetings, while the teams have played only four times since Syracuse left the Big East in 2013. Their most recent meetings have taken place on neutral courts, including Madison Square Garden.

McNamara played a central role in the rivalry during his Syracuse career, including a 2006 Big East quarterfinal performance against UConn. He later became an assistant at Syracuse and is now leading his alma mater after two seasons as Siena's head coach.

"I remember watching the six-overtime game, vividly," said Jayden Ross.

Ross said the rivalry has remained recognizable to players even after the programs moved to different conferences. The game will be treated as an exhibition, but both teams expect a competitive environment.

"When Syracuse and UConn play, you've got to be ready to compete," said Dan Hurley, UConn head coach.

Hurley has expressed respect for McNamara's basketball career and coaching path. According to the source, Hurley said he would have considered McNamara for an assistant role if openings had emerged on his staff in previous years.

McNamara's history with UConn includes leading Syracuse to the 2006 Big East tournament title after four wins in four nights and earning tournament MVP honors. He was also part of Syracuse's 2003 national championship team.

The Syracuse staff also includes Ryan Daley, who joined McNamara after coaching stops at Albany, Bryant and VCU. Daley previously scored 30 points for St. Joseph's against UConn in 2019 during Dan Hurley's second season with the Huskies.