The much-anticipated matchups for the third annual ACC/SEC Challenge have been officially announced, and for women’s basketball fans, one particular contest immediately jumps off the schedule: Notre Dame will play Ole Miss in the ACC/SEC Challenge in 2025.
This highly anticipated cross-conference showdown is set to take place on Thursday, December 4, 2025. While specific game times and television designations will be announced closer to the season, the event will be broadcast across the ESPN family of networks (ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ACC Network, SEC Network).
This game is more than just a regular early-season non-conference contest; it represents a clash of titans, tradition, and rising power in women’s college basketball. Both Notre Dame and Ole Miss are programs with rich histories and significant ambitions, making this a pivotal early-season test for both squads.
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish women’s basketball program, under head coach Niele Ivey, consistently ranks among the nation’s elite. Known for their storied tradition, multiple national championships, and a passionate fan base, the Irish are a perennial force in the ACC and on the national stage.
- Recent Success: Notre Dame is coming off a strong 2024-2025 season where they advanced to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament, continuing the ACC’s impressive streak of having at least three teams reach the regional semifinals for 11 consecutive tournaments. They consistently bring in top-tier recruiting classes and develop their talent effectively.
- Key Players: While rosters are always subject to change with transfers and incoming freshmen, Notre Dame’s success is often built on strong guard play and versatile forwards. Expectations will be high for their returning core and any impactful newcomers.
- ACC Powerhouse: The ACC consistently produces some of the strongest women’s basketball teams in the country, and Notre Dame is a key reason for that. Playing in a conference that features other powerhouses like NC State, Louisville, and Duke prepares them for tough competition.
- Home Court Advantage (in this challenge, for Ole Miss): While Notre Dame is accustomed to playing in high-pressure environments, this particular game will be a true road test. The challenge dictates that Notre Dame will travel to Ole Miss, meaning they will face a hostile crowd in the SJB Pavilion. This adds another layer of difficulty to an already challenging opponent.
The Ole Miss Rebels women’s basketball program, under head coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin, has experienced a remarkable resurgence in recent years. “Coach Yo” has transformed the Rebels into a competitive force in the notoriously tough Southeastern Conference, making them a program to watch nationally.
- Recent Success: Ole Miss also had a highly successful 2024-2025 season, making a run to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament. This marked a significant achievement for the program, signaling their return to national relevance. Their aggressive defense and athletic play style have become their calling card.
- Rising in the SEC: The SEC is arguably the deepest and most competitive women’s basketball conference in the nation, boasting multiple national champions and consistent Final Four contenders. Ole Miss’s ability to not only compete but thrive in this conference is a testament to their coaching and talent acquisition. Their consistent presence in the NCAA Tournament and deep runs speak volumes about their progress.
- Home Court Advantage: This game marks the first time Ole Miss will host Notre Dame on their home court, the SJB Pavilion. The atmosphere is expected to be electric, providing a significant boost for the Rebels as they welcome a blue-blood program.
- Historical Context: The two programs have only met once before in school history, adding an intriguing element to this second-ever matchup.
- Elite Competition: Both teams are consistently ranked among the top 25 nationally and have proven their ability to make deep runs in the NCAA Tournament. This will be a high-level contest from tip-off to final buzzer.
- Conference Pride: The ACC/SEC Challenge is about more than just individual team records; it’s a battle for conference supremacy. Both Notre Dame and Ole Miss will be playing not only for their own program’s standing but also to represent the strength and depth of their respective conferences.
- Coaching Battle: Niele Ivey at Notre Dame and Yolett McPhee-McCuin at Ole Miss are two of the most respected and innovative coaches in women’s basketball. Their strategic adjustments and in-game decisions will be fascinating to observe.
- Early Season Measuring Stick: For both teams, this game provides a crucial early-season litmus test. A win would provide significant momentum and a boost in national rankings, while a loss would offer valuable lessons and areas for improvement before conference play begins.
- Recruiting Implications: High-profile games like these are excellent showcases for prospective recruits. The intensity and talent on display could influence future decisions of top high school prospects.
- Style of Play: While specific rosters for 2025-2026 are still taking shape, both teams typically feature athletic, up-tempo styles of play with strong defensive principles. This could lead to a fast-paced, high-scoring affair or a gritty, defensive slugfest, depending on how the game unfolds.
The ACC/SEC Challenge, now in its third year, has quickly become a marquee event on the college basketball calendar. It brings together two of the most dominant conferences in the sport, offering fans highly competitive games and providing teams with valuable early-season tests against elite non-conference opponents.
The women’s portion of the challenge, taking place on Wednesday, December 3, and Thursday, December 4, 2025, features a robust schedule of compelling matchups. Beyond Notre Dame vs. Ole Miss, other notable games include:
- LSU at Duke
- South Carolina at Louisville
- North Carolina at Texas
- Clemson at Alabama
- Kentucky at Miami
- NC State at Oklahoma
- Tennessee at Stanford
These matchups highlight the incredible depth and talent across both conferences, setting the stage for a thrilling two days of college basketball. The ACC and SEC have consistently produced NCAA Tournament contenders and Final Four teams, making this challenge a true showcase of the sport’s best.
For Notre Dame and Ole Miss, their December 4th clash in Oxford will be a highlight of the non-conference slate. It promises to be a competitive, high-stakes game that will not only entertain fans but also provide crucial insights into the potential of both programs as they embark on their respective journeys towards the NCAA Tournament. Women’s basketball enthusiasts should mark their calendars for what is sure to be a thrilling encounter.
