Duke vs Michigan college basketball matchup coming to Capital One Arena

WASHINGTON — College basketball fans, mark your calendars. There’s a big game coming to D.C. in 2026. 

The “Duel in the District” was announced Tuesday. It’s a matchup between reigning ACC Men’s Basketball Champion Duke and reigning Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament Champion Michigan. The game tips off on Feb. 21, 2026. 

The game time, television details and ticket information has not yet been announced. Those who want to get first dibs on tickets can sign up for updates here. 

The game will mark the seventh meeting between the Blue Devils and Wolverines on a neutral floor and 31st overall meeting dating back to 1963. Duke leads the series 22-8, including a 79-69 win in their last meeting at Cameron Indoor Stadium as part of the ACC/Big Ten Challenge in 2013. 

“Duel in The District” marks the return of both teams to the host venue, following Duke’s appearance in the 2024 ACC Men’s Basketball Tournament at Capital One Arena, and Michigan’s conference title win during the 2017 Big 10 Men’s Basketball Tournament.

In addition to this marquee matchup, Capital One Arena is set to host several high-profile NCAA events in the coming years including the 2026 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball East Regional in 2026, the 2027 Division I Men’s Ice Hockey Championship, and the 2028 Division I Women’s Basketball Regional. 

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