University of Pittsburgh Athletics
10/23/2026 10:30:00 AM | Men's Basketball
PITTSBURGH – Pitt Athletics is bringing new energy to the Petersen Events Center for the 2026-27 men's basketball season, introducing an enhanced gameday experience featuring exciting theme nights, exclusive giveaways, halftime entertainment, special ticket offers and expanded season ticket holder benefits.
With a new-look roster taking the court, fans can look forward to a refreshed atmosphere at the Pete, highlighted by a new team introduction, enhanced in-game entertainment and more opportunities to engage with Pitt Basketball throughout the season.
The excitement begins Monday, Nov. 2, when the Panthers host Rider in their home opener. Fans can enjoy a special poster giveaway, while students can pick up Oakland Zoo shirts.
Gameday Experiences, Theme Nights and Student Giveaways
The 2026-27 season will feature a full lineup of theme nights, student giveaways and special entertainment throughout the home schedule at the Petersen Events Center.
Highlights include Dollar Dog Night against Villanova (Nov. 17), Roc the Royal against Boston College (Jan. 23), and Gold Rush returns against Virginia (Feb. 9), followed by 90s Night against California (Feb. 17), featuring throwback entertainment and a special halftime performance by the Golden Girls.
Additional theme nights include Coaches vs. Cancer against Virginia Tech (Jan. 27), Pitt Day of Giving / Band Day against Georgia Tech (Feb. 20).
Students can look forward to exclusive giveaways throughout the season, including Oakland Zoo merchandise, ski hats, royal blue shirts, gold Snuggies, throwback jackets and Pitt hockey jerseys.
Families can also take advantage of Junior Panther Days against Tarleton State (Dec. 5), Georgia State (Dec. 18) and Boston College (Jan. 23), featuring complimentary tickets for Junior Panthers and postgame layups on the court.
Halftime entertainment will feature a variety of special performances, including Christian and Scooby, Element Dance, the Pitt Drumline, the Pitt Jump Rope Team and youth basketball showcases featuring local teams.
Expanded Season Ticket Holder Benefits
Pitt men's basketball season ticket holders will enjoy an expanded lineup of exclusive benefits throughout the 2026-27 season, providing added value and special opportunities at the Petersen Events Center.
New and returning benefits include:
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Hoops & Hops: Half-price select domestic beers, during pregame at all weekday home games excluding Tuesdays.
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4-1-2uesdays: Special Tuesday concession pricing featuring $4 select beers, $1 regular fountain drinks and $2 regular popcorn at games against Villanova, Drexel, Syracuse, Virginia and North Carolina.
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Weekend Concession Discounts: A 10% discount on the first concession purchase of the game when paying by credit card at Coaches Corner and Baseline Grill during seven select weekend games.
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Additional Exclusive Perks: Express concession line access, 15% off at the Panthers Team Store and exclusive access to the online Loyalty Locker when it launches later this season.
These benefits are designed to recognize the commitment of Pitt's season ticket holders while providing additional ways to enjoy every gameday at the Pete.
Backyard Brawl Highlights December Schedule
One of the season's most anticipated matchups takes place Wednesday, Dec. 9, when Pitt faces West Virginia at PPG Paints Arena as part of the inaugural Backyard Basketball Classic.
The Panthers and Mountaineers will tip off at 6 p.m., followed by Robert Morris against Duquesne at 8:30 p.m. Tickets to the event include admission to both games of the doubleheader.
The Backyard Basketball Classic is included in Pitt men's basketball season ticket packages, with additional tickets available for purchase separately.
Special Ticket Offers for Fans and Families
Fans will have additional opportunities to experience Pitt men's basketball at special promotional prices throughout the season, with several ticket offers set to become available at a later date.
You in the Zoo
The You in the Zoo ticket offer will feature specially priced tickets to select home games, including $15 tickets for Central Michigan (Nov. 20), Drexel (Dec. 15), Georgia State (Dec. 18) and Cleveland State (Dec. 21), as well as $30 tickets for Miami (Jan. 2).
Family 4 Pack
Families will have the opportunity to purchase a special package featuring four game tickets for $125, plus a $40 concession voucher.
The Family 4 Pack will be available for select games against Central Michigan, Tarleton State, Georgia State, Miami, Clemson, Boston College and Georgia Tech.
Additional information and on-sale dates for both offers will be announced at a later date.
Secure Your Seats for the 2026-27 Season
Fans can secure their seats for the upcoming season with several ticket options currently available, including season tickets, 5+1 Mini Plans, Meet the Panthers Packs and non-conference single-game tickets.
The 5+1 Mini Plan offers fans the flexibility to experience select matchups throughout the season, while the Meet the Panthers Pack features three non-conference games for just $35.
ACC single-game tickets will go on sale to the general public Thursday, Nov. 19.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit pittsburghpanthers.com/tickets or contact the Panthers Ticket Office at 412-648-7488.
