GADSDEN, Ala. (Interstat) — The Gadsden State Cardinals will open their 2025-26 men’s junior college basketball season at home against the Pellissippi State Panthers on Saturday, Nov. 1.

Both teams enter the contest with 0-0 records, looking to establish an early identity. For the Cardinals, this marks their first official game since a narrow 67-64 loss to Wallace State on March 8, 2024, which concluded their previous campaign.

The Panthers will also be tipping off a new season, seeking a positive start before a challenging road stretch. Following the opener, Pellissippi State embarks on a five-game road trip, facing opponents including Dyersburg State, Motlow State and Chattanooga State throughout November.

Gadsden State’s schedule offers no immediate respite, as they hit the road to face Copiah-Lincoln just two days after the season opener. The two teams are scheduled for a rematch in Tennessee on Jan. 5, 2026.

Saturday’s matchup will provide the first glimpse of both squads as they begin their quests in the competitive junior college landscape.