# US collegiate athletic seasons commencement

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/us-collegiate-athletic-seasons-commencement
> Updated: 2026-09-25T19:41:11.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 2.

The 2026-27 collegiate athletic season has commenced across various disciplines in the United States.

In basketball, Ohio State University’s men’s and women’s teams began official practices. Men’s head coach Jake Diebler noted significant roster changes, including nine new players, with a focus on increasing offensive versatility and defensive physicality. The women’s team, returning four of five starters, is scheduled to open against the University of Illinois at Chicago. Additionally, UT Martin’s women’s basketball coach announced a non-conference schedule featuring visits from Power Four schools.

Other sports have also begun competition. The Ohio State rifle team opened its season in Mississippi, while volleyball programs at Middle Tennessee State University and UT Martin reported recent match results. In soccer, Ole Miss is preparing for SEC play following a loss to Vanderbilt.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-25: Collegiate athletics begin 2026-27 seasons across multiple disciplines

Various collegiate athletic seasons have begun, including rifle competitions featuring Ohio State, Ole Miss, and UT Martin, alongside updates in volleyball, soccer, and women's basketball.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ole-miss-hosts-ohio-state-and-ut-martin-to-open-rifle-season

### 2026-09-22: Ohio State basketball teams begin 2026-27 season practices

Ohio State men’s and women’s basketball teams have begun 2026-27 season practices, with the men’s team focusing on increased roster depth and defensive physicality.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ohio-state-basketball-teams-begin-2026-27-season-practices

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Cite as: US collegiate athletic seasons commencement. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/us-collegiate-athletic-seasons-commencement