USF is determined to keep its perfect home record intact as it welcomes the UMBC Retrievers to the Yuengling Center on Sunday, with a 3 p.m. ET tip. The showdown will be carried on ESPN Plus, and Bulls Unlimited will provide radio coverage for those on the go. This game doubles as USF’s Holiday Celebration, so fans are invited to bring toys or sporting equipment for Coaching Love, the nonprofit led by head coach Bryan Hodgson. Donations will be collected at marketing tables inside Gates A and C, and anyone who donates will receive a free general admission ticket to the Bulls’ conference opener on January 4, 2026, against UAB.
Last Time Out: USF comes in at 6–5 after a spirited road contest against No. 16 Alabama. The Bulls were paced by Izaiyah Nelson (25 points, 12 rebounds), Wes Enis (20 points), and Josh Omojafo (20 points, 11 rebounds) in a 104–93 defeat. But here’s where it gets controversial: can USF translate that high-scoring performance into a win against a disciplined opponent, especially on the road, and maintain momentum as conference play approaches?
What to Expect This Week: USF will look to build momentum entering American Athletic Conference action, relying on a balanced scoring attack and a tough defensive approach at home. The non-conference portion of the schedule has forced the team to face several high-caliber opponents, so Sunday offers a chance to keep the home slate unblemished in non-conference play.
Opponent Snapshot: UMBC heads to Tampa with a 6–5 record under fifth-year head coach Jim Ferry, competing in the America East Conference. The Retrievers play an efficient, two-way style, averaging just over 74 points per game while allowing a touch over 70. Their ball movement and disciplined offense emphasize execution, and their roster blends veteran leadership with athletic wings who can create and stretch the floor.
Key players include scorers and playmakers like Jah’Likai King and Ace Valentine, supplemented by several teammates capable of knocking down perimeter shots. This is UMBC’s first-ever meeting with USF, and it’s the Bulls’ first test against a brand-new opponent this season.
Series History: This matchup marks the first time these two programs have faced each other in history. It’s also the first fresh opponent USF has drawn this season, adding an element of mystery to the afternoon.
Looking Ahead: The Bulls’ next game arrives on Monday, December 29, when USF will host Georgia College & State at 4:30 p.m. in the Yuengling Center. The game will be available on ESPN Plus or via Bulls Unlimited.
Tickets: Single-game and season tickets for men’s basketball are available by calling 1-800-Go-Bulls or visiting USFBullsTix.com.
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About USF Men’s Basketball: Bryan Hodgson, 37, was named the program’s 12th head coach on March 24, 2025. He arrived in Tampa from Arkansas State, where he led the Red Wolves to back-to-back 20-win seasons and their first postseason appearance since 1999 during his two seasons at the helm.
USF’s program enters its 55th season in 2025–26. The Bulls claimed the American Athletic Conference regular-season crown in 2023–24 and have appeared in 13 postseason tournaments, including three NCAA events, nine NITs, and a CBI title in 2019. Three former Bulls—Chucky Atkins, Charlie Bradley, and Rodenko Dobras—have their jerseys retired and are members of the USF Athletic Hall of Fame. Home games are played at the 10,400-seat Yuengling Center on the USF campus in Tampa.
—Go Bulls—
