Sacramento State Men’s Basketball Team Gears Up for New Season Under Coach Mike Bibby
Sacramento State men’s basketball team is gearing up for a new season under the leadership of former NBA player Mike Bibby, who took over as head coach after the team's disappointing performance last year. The Hornets will face off against reigning NCAA champion Baylor for the first time, marking an exciting challenge for the team.
After a tough season that saw them finish last in the Big Sky conference, Sacramento State is looking to turn things around under Bibby's guidance. With a new coach at the helm and a fresh start, the team is determined to make a mark in their final Big Sky season before transitioning to the Big West conference for non-football sports.
The upcoming season will also see the Hornets playing on their new home court at The Well, a state-of-the-art facility with a seating capacity of around 3,000. This marks a significant change for the team, who previously played their home games at the Nest for over six decades before moving to the new venue on campus.
Sacramento State's 2025-26 men’s basketball schedule has been released, featuring a total of 30 games, including 18 in Big Sky play. The team will also face off against 12 non-league opponents, including future Big West rivals UC Davis, UC Santa Barbara, and California State University Northridge.
In addition to their conference matchups, the Hornets will take on Baylor in a highly anticipated game on the road in Waco, Texas. The team will also participate in the Empire Classic, where they will face off against Presbyterian, UCLA, and Cal, among others, in non-conference play.
With a roster comprised entirely of new players, including Shaquille O’Neal's son Shaqir O’Neal, who joined as a senior forward, Sacramento State is undergoing a major overhaul. The team's coaching staff has also seen significant changes, with Bibby and his new team aiming to bring a fresh perspective and energy to the program.
As the Hornets prepare for the upcoming season, they are focused on building a competitive team that can hold its own against tough opponents. With a mix of experienced players and newcomers, Sacramento State is looking to make a statement in the Big Sky conference and beyond.