For the second straight year, there will be no First Night event at Gampel Pavilion.
With major renovations still underway at the newly renamed M&T Bank Center at Gampel Pavilion, the men’s and women’s basketball programs will not hold the traditional season-opening event, a UConn spokesperson said.
The event also did not happen in 2025 due to construction and last took place prior to the 2024-25 season.
“Due to ongoing construction at Gampel Pavilion, there is no event planned for this year,” the UConn spokesperson said in an email. “We are always looking for opportunities to showcase our programs and drive fan engagement, and we will continue to do so in future planning.”
The first phase of the multi-phase renovations is expected to conclude in November, with the second phase set to begin in March 2027, according to the university’s March 2026 announcement. Phase one is expected to include a fully replaced roof, grab-and-go food options and improved facility amenities for players and coaches, according to the announcement.
Marking the beginning of the basketball season, First Night has previously included player introductions, scrimmages and three-point and dunk contests. The event has also previously included a block party on Jim Calhoun Way and giveaways for fans.
Both basketball programs have participated in an increased number of preseason exhibition games this season. The women’s team hosted No. 6 Texas at PeoplesBank Arena in an 83-61 victory on Monday. The men’s team took down No. 6 Michigan State on the road on Tuesday, a 78-70 win.
The women’s team also held an open practice at Sacred Heart University on Sept. 20. The Huskies are scheduled to christen the newly renovated Gampel Pavilion on Sunday when they play their final exhibition game of the fall, hosting Army.