UW-Milwaukee Panthers Arena

UW-Milwaukee Panthers Arena, formerly MECCA

The 2025-26 college basketball season tipped off Monday, as teams across the country took the floor with a blank slate and infinite dreams. In Milwaukee, UWM men’s basketball coach Bart Lundy looked to steer the Panthers to their first NCAA Tournament bid since 2014.

Milwaukee, the preseason Horizon League favorites, hosted the Hampton Pirates out of the Coastal Athletic Association — another new-look but experienced team with their own aspirations.

Led by their fresh faces, the Panthers looked like tournament contenders at times and did just enough to hold off the Pirates for a 90-86 season-opening win. Toledo transfer Seth Hubbard led the hosts with 23 points while making four three-pointers.

Early Nerves

With

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