The 2026 Southwest Maui Invitational returns to the historic Lahaina Civic Center from Monday, 23 November through Wednesday, 25 November 2026. Eight major college basketball programs—Arizona, BYU, Clemson, Colorado State, Ole Miss, Providence, VCU, and Washington—will compete across three high-energy days during Thanksgiving week on Maui.
"For basketball fans, the Maui Invitational 2026 offers a rare combination: nationally relevant early-season matchups, an intimate arena environment, and an unforgettable West Maui setting."
The Story of the Maui Invitational
A Prestigious College Basketball Tradition
For the island, the tournament’s return to Lahaina carries particular meaning, bringing visitors and economic activity while supporting the community’s ongoing recovery with sensitivity and respect. The event marks the tournament’s 43rd edition and returns the action to the classic Lahaina venue, known for its close seating, loud crowds, and special atmosphere.
"The Maui Invitational has long been a source of visitor activity for West Maui, generating up to $20 million in annual economic impact."
The 2026 Experience
What to Expect from the Tournament
The confirmed dates for the 2026 Southwest Maui Invitational are 23 to 25 November 2026. The tournament will take place at the Lahaina Civic Center, located at 1840 Honoapiʻilani Highway, Lahaina, Maui, HI. The championship game is scheduled for Wednesday, 25 November 2026 at 2:30 p.m. Hawaiʻi Standard Time, with ESPN set to carry the broadcast.
- Monday, 23 November 2026: First-round games
- Tuesday, 24 November 2026: Championship-bracket semifinals and consolation games
- Wednesday, 25 November 2026: Championship, third-place, fifth-place, and seventh-place games
- Venue: Lahaina Civic Center
- Location: Lahaina, West Maui, Hawaiʻi
- Field: Eight teams, three days, and 12 total games
The 2026 Maui Invitational Teams
A Diverse and Competitive Field
The 2026 field brings together eight programs from major conferences and basketball traditions. Every team is guaranteed three games, giving fans a full tournament experience rather than a one-night event. This field offers contrasting styles and fan bases, making the 2026 bracket one of the most intriguing early-season tests in college basketball.
- Arizona Wildcats
- BYU Cougars
- Clemson Tigers
- Colorado State Rams
- Ole Miss Rebels
- Providence Friars
- VCU Rams
- Washington Huskies
Into the Games
Schedule and Matchups
The opening round takes place on Monday, 23 November 2026 at Lahaina Civic Center. All times listed are Hawaiʻi Standard Time.
- 2:30 p.m.: Clemson vs. Ole Miss
- 5:00 p.m.: BYU vs. Washington
- 9:00 p.m.: Providence vs. VCU
- 11:30 p.m.: Arizona vs. Colorado State
The late-night start times may look unusual to Maui visitors, but they allow national television coverage while creating a distinctive Thanksgiving-week basketball atmosphere in Lahaina.
The Lahaina Experience
Why the Maui Invitational Is So Special
The Maui Invitational is not just another non-conference tournament. It has become one of college basketball’s most prestigious early-season events because it pairs elite teams with an unusual island setting. The Lahaina Civic Center has a capacity of about 2,400, creating an intimate environment unlike the large arenas most of these programs play in during the regular season.
- Fans sit close to the action.
- Every possession feels louder.
- Team supporters travel from across the United States.
- Players face major opponents early in the season.
- Coaches can test rotations under pressure.
- National television gives the games a wide audience.
- Maui adds a memorable backdrop to serious basketball.
Planning Your Visit
Tickets, Travel, and Accommodations
The official tournament website offers ticket purchasing and travel packages for the 2026 event, but final official ticket prices may vary by package, session, seating section, and availability. Third-party marketplaces have listed all-session tickets beginning around $385, but resale prices change rapidly and are not official face values.
- Tickets: Official prices vary by package; third-party all-session listings have begun around $385, subject to change
- Transportation: Fly into Kahului Airport
- Accommodation: Book early in West Maui
Before buying, confirm:
- Whether tickets are all-session or single-session
- Exact seat location
- Fees and delivery method
- Refund policy
- Resale restrictions
- Accessibility seating
- Tournament-package inclusions
- Hotel and transport options
- Official seller status
Frequently Asked Questions
The Things People Always Want to Know
When is the Maui Invitational 2026?
The 2026 Southwest Maui Invitational takes place from Monday, 23 November through Wednesday, 25 November 2026.
Where is the Maui Invitational 2026 held?
The tournament will be held at the Lahaina Civic Center, 1840 Honoapiʻilani Highway, Lahaina, Maui, Hawaiʻi.
Which teams are in the 2026 Maui Invitational?
The confirmed field includes Arizona, BYU, Clemson, Colorado State, Ole Miss, Providence, VCU, and Washington.
When is the 2026 Maui Invitational championship game?
The championship game is scheduled for Wednesday, 25 November 2026 at 2:30 p.m. Hawaiʻi Standard Time.
How much are Maui Invitational 2026 tickets?
Official pricing varies by package and availability. Third-party all-session listings have started around $385, but prices can change and are not official face values. Purchase through official tournament channels whenever possible.
Is the Maui Invitational returning to Lahaina Civic Center?
Yes. The 2026 tournament is confirmed for Lahaina Civic Center from 23 to 25 November 2026.
How many games does each team play?
Every participating team plays three games during the three-day tournament. The bracket includes a championship path and consolation placement games.
Verified Information at a Glance
- Event Name: Southwest Maui Invitational
- Common Name: Maui Invitational
- Edition: 43rd tournament edition
- Event Category: NCAA Division I men’s college basketball tournament
- Confirmed Dates: Monday, 23 November to Wednesday, 25 November 2026
- Venue: Lahaina Civic Center
- Address: 1840 Honoapiʻilani Highway, Lahaina, Maui, HI
- Location: Lahaina, West Maui, Hawaiʻi
- Field: Arizona, BYU, Clemson, Colorado State, Ole Miss, Providence, VCU, and Washington
- Total Games: 12
- First-round Date: Monday, 23 November 2026
- Semifinal Date: Tuesday, 24 November 2026
- Championship Date and Time: Wednesday, 25 November 2026 at 2:30 p.m. Hawaiʻi Standard Time
- Championship Broadcast: ESPN
- Ticket Pricing: Official prices vary by package; third-party all-session listings have begun around $385, subject to change
- Best for: College basketball fans, alumni groups, families, sports travelers, and visitors seeking a Thanksgiving-week Maui experience
Make the most of 23 to 25 November 2026 by bringing your team colors to Lahaina, supporting local businesses with care, and experiencing why three days of basketball in Maui remain one of college sport’s most unforgettable traditions.
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