On January 19, 2026, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, TCU women's basketball will play in a historic matchup against Ohio State in the second annual Coretta Scott King Classic. The Prudential Centre in Newark, New Jersey, will host the game, which is scheduled to tip off at 11 a.m. CT. FOX will broadcast the event nationwide. 

Respecting the Legacy of Coretta Scott King

More than merely a basketball competition, the Coretta Scott King Classic honours the late Coretta Scott King's commitment to equality, social justice, and self-determination. In keeping with her dedication to civil rights, the event continues to honour her memory and the transformational potential of involvement and education. Coretta Scott King's daughter, Dr. Bernice A. King, highlighted how the occasion helped realise her mother's vision for coming generations.

TCU head coach Mark Campbell expressed the team’s excitement about being part of this prestigious event. “This is a special way to celebrate Coretta Scott King's legacy, and we’re honoured to be included,” said Campbell. “Her profound impact on civil rights and social justice is inspiring, and playing against Ohio State in a national spotlight on FOX is an amazing opportunity for our team.”

An Intriguing Duel

The next encounter between TCU and Ohio State will be the first time these two formidable schools have faced one other. As the defending Big 12 champions, TCU comes into the contest fresh off a stellar 2024–25 campaign in which they set a school record of 34 victories. With outstanding performances from players like Marta Suarez, who returns as a crucial leader for TCU, the Horned Frogs also had an unforgettable journey to the NCAA Tournament Elite Eight. In the fight against a formidable Ohio State squad, Suarez, a talented stretch forward, will be essential.

In women's basketball, Ohio State, under the direction of head coach Kevin McGuff, has been a steady challenger. The Buckeyes will send a strong team to Newark after defeating UConn in an unexpected 2023 NCAA Tournament matchup. Ohio State is well-positioned to have a successful 2025–26 season because to McGuff's leadership and talented recruiting. For both sides, the Coretta Scott King Classic will be a crucial preseason test.

Honouring Women's Basketball

The Coretta Scott King Classic is more than simply a game; it's a celebration of empowerment, equality, and leadership. The event highlights the resilience and social justice ideals that Coretta Scott King fought for throughout her life through community activations and youth programs.

"Our team has the chance to compete at a high level while accepting the responsibility to inspire and uplift through the platform of sport by taking part in this event," McGuff said. Like their TCU counterparts, Ohio State's athletes will embody the program's dedication to greatness on and off the court.

Information about the game and tickets

The first game of a doubleheader will be between TCU and Ohio State, while the second game of the day will be between Michigan and Vanderbilt. A thrilling day of elite women's basketball is anticipated for the tournament, which will be televised nationwide.

The Prudential Centre Box Office, Ticketmaster, and the Prudential Centre website all sell tickets for the Coretta Scott King Classic. TCU women's basketball fans should also anticipate the 2025–2026 season ticket sales, since single-game tickets will soon be available.

It is evident as both sides get ready for this momentous match that the Coretta Scott King Classic is a celebration of history, empowerment, and the ongoing struggle for social justice rather than merely a game of rivalry. This game is an exciting opportunity for TCU, headed by Mark Campbell and a vibrant team that includes Marta Suarez, as well as an occasion to commemorate Coretta Scott King's lasting contributions to society.