MAC-SBC Challenge Preview: Spotlighting Exciting Women's Showdowns

The MAC-SBC Challenge continues to gain traction as one of college basketball’s most underrated yet competitive events.

Starting in 2023, this Challenge pits the Mid-American Conference (MAC) against the Sun Belt (SBC) in a series of compelling, non-conference matchups.

While every game offers storylines and bragging rights, a few headline clashes stand out as must-watch contests for fans and scouts alike.

𝗠𝗔𝗖-𝗦𝗕𝗖 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗟𝗟𝗘𝗡𝗚𝗘: 𝗪𝗢𝗠𝗘𝗡’𝗦

13 #SunBeltWBB teams will host @MACSports opponents in round one of the #MACxSBC Challenge to tip off the 2025-26 campaign. ☀️🏀

📰 » https://t.co/9Q7apvzZMe pic.twitter.com/U9779yAcyD

— Sun Belt (@SunBelt) July 1, 2025

Here’s a closer look at the most anticipated games during the women’s side of the Challenge—and why they matter.

Ball State at Arkansas State

In one of the most evenly matched showdowns, Ball State travels to Jonesboro to face Arkansas State in a rare rematch of a series that last took place in 2001.

Ball State (3-1 in MAC-SBC Challenge play) will look to bounce back after a recent loss to James Madison, while Arkansas State aims to build on its win over Bowling Green

The Red Wolves boast a strong history against MAC opponents (11-5), but Ball State’s overall winning record against Sun Belt teams (14-8) could tip the balance in this toss-up.

Why It Matters: This game features two programs looking to prove their relevance nationally. A win could provide momentum for Arkansas State as it builds on last season’s success. For Ball State, it is an opportunity to bolster its NCAA Tournament resume.

Miami (OH) at Coastal Carolina

Two of the hottest teams in the MAC-SBC Challenge square off for the first time in Conway, S.C. Miami (OH) puts its three-game MAC-SBC Challenge win streak on the line against a Coastal Caroling squad that won both their 2024-25 matchups.

The RedHawks owns an impressive 24-7 mark against current Sun Belt members, while the Chanticleers had only three games against MAC members prior to last season.

4Q | 4:34

Having fun in Conway! Coastal leads 61-55 over Buffalo #ChantsUp | #CoastalChaos pic.twitter.com/HmR4uTygCe

— Coastal Women’s Basketball (@CoastalWBB) February 8, 2025

With both teams showing consistency, this matchup promises to be one of the most tightly contested games in the series.

Why It Matters: Both programs are quietly building strong resumes for potential postseason consideration. Coastal is coming off just their second-ever Division I postseason appearance, while Miami is seeking its first postseason bid in 17 years.

Kent State at James Madison

Prior to meeting in the 2024-25 season opener, these two programs had not matched up since 1996. James Madison enters this matchup riding a two-game win streak in the MAC-SBC Challenge, fresh off a victory over Ball State

Did you miss our season-opening win at Kent State? We have you covered ⬇️

📽️ https://t.co/CRA2VuxWRN #GoDukes pic.twitter.com/880RjTnKMR

— JMU Women’s Basketball (@JMUWBasketball) November 5, 2024

Kent State, winners of their last Challenge game against Troy, brings a respectable 20-19 record against current Sun Belt teams.

With both squads sitting at 2-2 in Challenge play and boasting recent success, this battle could have major implications for conference pride.

Why It Matters: Both programs are aiming to extend win streaks in this event. The Dukes hope to boost their chances for a fourth straight postseason appearance, while the Golden Flashes are chasing back-to-back NCAA Tournament bids for the first time in program history.

Toledo at Troy

This matchup features two programs with opposite histories in the MAC-SBC Challenge, as Toledo visits Troy in Alabama. The Rockets have built a reputation as one of the MAC’s most consistent programs, posting four straight 20-win seasons.

Troy, which won the only previous meeting between the two in 2019, has struggled against MAC teams, holding a 7-13 record all-time — including a 1-3 record in Challenge games.

With both teams capable of scoring in bunches, expect a fast-paced battle between postseason contenders.

Why It Matters: Toledo is defending its perfect Challenge record, while Troy is seeking a signature win to turn around recent struggles. This game could shape the at-large outlook for both in March.

Buffalo at Marshall

In a matchup rich with history, former MAC foes Buffalo and Marshall renew acquaintances for the first time since 2005. The Herd leads the all-time series 8-5.

Buffalo has performed better in recent cross-conference games, posting a 2-2 Challenge record and 16-13 mark against Sun Belt teams. Marshall comes into the matchup off a win over Central Michigan and hoping to keep the momentum going.

Expect a physical and emotional battle between familiar rivals, as Marshall holds a three-game winning streak in the series.

Why It Matters: Marshall is looking to have more success against MAC opponents. Buffalo hopes to ride the momentum of its 2025 WNIT title into another NCAA bid.

Honorable Mentions:

Six first-time matchups are on tap for November’s MAC-SBC Challenge:

Northern Illinois at Southern Miss
Akron at South Alabama
UMass at Old Dominion
Eastern Michigan at ULM
Bowling Green at Louisiana
Central Michigan at Georgia Southern

Two rematches from last season also return:

Ohio at Texas State – A “Battle of the Bobcats” between a Texas State team that had its three-game win streak snapped in February and an Ohio team still seeking its first Challenge win (0-4).
Western Michigan at Appalachian State – The Mountaineers aim to end a two-game Challenge skid, while the Broncos look to build on two Challenge wins last season.

As the MAC-SBC Challenge continues to grow in reputation and competitiveness, these matchups offer a strong litmus test for postseason potential and conference depth. With every game carrying weight, expect intense, high-stakes action across the board.