Stanford men’s basketball is gearing up for an exciting start to the 2025-26 season, following a promising last season that concluded with a 21-14 record and an 11-9 performance in the ACC. The Cardinal reached the second round of the NIT before being knocked out by Kent State. Despite their previous success, Stanford has been projected to finish 17th in the ACC this season, a prediction influenced by the departures of key players Maxime Raynaud and Jaylen Blakes.
The Cardinal kicked off their season with a competitive exhibition match against Oregon on October 30, triumphed with a score of 78-70, thanks in large part to Chisom Okpara, who led the team with 20 points and six rebounds. Their official opener is set for November 4, when they will host Portland State, who are coming off a 19-13 season. Senior guard Jaylin Henderson, Portland’s leading scorer, averaged 13.0 points last year and poses a significant threat. They will compliment Henderson with senior forward Terri Miller Jr., who contributed 12.1 points and 5.5 rebounds.
Following the game against Portland State, Stanford will take on the Montana Grizzlies on November 8. The Grizzlies, who had a strong 25-10 season last year and won the Big Sky tournament before facing a tough loss to Wisconsin in the NCAA tournament, will also serve as a formidable opponent for Stanford. The match-up is expected to test the Cardinal’s capabilities early in the season.
Next up, Stanford will face Montana State on November 12, whose last season record of 15-18 indicates a potentially easier contest for the Cardinal. They will also host Louisiana and Seattle in the following weeks, both of which will present opportunities for Stanford to build momentum with expected wins.
The Thanksgiving weekend is particularly significant for Stanford, as they will participate in the Acrisure Invitational in Palm Desert, CA, facing Minnesota on Thanksgiving Day. Minnesota is navigating a coaching transition, making this game an essential early test for both programs. On Black Friday, Stanford awaits a matchup against either Santa Clara or Saint Louis, two teams that should offer a great gauge of Stanford’s readiness for the season.
Stanford’s schedule continues with a mix of home and away games, including key contests against UNLV and Colorado, both of which will be critical to bolster their resume. The season is particularly highlighted by games against traditional powerhouses Duke and North Carolina, with both teams visiting Stanford’s Maples Pavilion—a unique opportunity for fans and players alike.
As the season progresses, Stanford is hopeful they will not only navigate their challenging ACC slate but also position themselves effectively for postseason contention. The schedule presents numerous opportunities for growth and resilience, especially with heavyweights like Duke and North Carolina in their sights. With their fans’ support, the Cardinal could make significant strides this season, transforming trials into triumphs.