Main Story

Butler opens its 2026-27 women’s basketball season Monday against Tennessee Tech at Hinkle Fieldhouse. The Bulldogs, led by new head coach Maria Marchesano, have just two returning players and 11 newcomers. The 11 a.m. game is also Butler’s annual Readers Become Leaders event, welcoming nearly 2,600 Indianapolis students and teachers.

By the Numbers
  • 11 a.m. Monday, Nov. 2: tipoff on ESPN+.
  • Nearly 2,600 students and teachers are expected at Hinkle Fieldhouse.
  • Butler added 11 players: 4 freshmen and 7 transfers.
  • Butler went 12-19 overall and 6-14 in BIG EAST play last season.
  • Tennessee Tech was 15-14 last season; its top 3 scorers are not returning.
Yes, But

Butler’s exhibition wins offer an encouraging start, but a largely rebuilt roster faces an early test against a Tennessee Tech team with eight straight winning seasons under coach Kim Rosamond. The Golden Eagles also have to replace their three leading scorers.

What’s Next

Butler hosts Lipscomb on Thursday, Nov. 5, at 6:30 p.m. on ESPN+.

Bottom Line

Monday’s opener is an early look at how quickly Marchesano can bring Butler’s new roster together—and a chance to launch the season before a large hometown crowd.