GARY, Ind. — The IU Northwest women's basketball team will tip off its 2025-26 season with a challenging mix of nonconference opponents and a balanced slate of 13 home and 13 road contests. The RedHawks, led by second-year head coach Nicki Monahan-Keith, will look to build on the strides made in recent years as they navigate the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference (CCAC).

The season begins with two October exhibition scrimmages before the RedHawks head to Chicago for the Saint Xavier Classic in early November, providing an early test against a strong regional field.

IU Northwest's first official home game is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 24, at 5 p.m. when Grace College (Ind.) visits the Savannah Center. The home slate is highlighted by several theme nights, including First Responders Night on Oct. 30, honoring IUPD, Gary police, fire and EMT services; Veterans Night on Nov. 12, recognizing military service members; and the annual Toys for Tots Drive from Nov. 22–Dec. 6, which encourages fans to support local families in need.

The RedHawks will celebrate Senior Night on Feb. 7 before closing the regular season at home against Judson University on Feb. 18.

"I am excited to test our program competing against some NAIA National Tournament-level talent to start our season after coming off an NAIA Tournament appearance last season," Monahan-Keith said. "We have a good mix of returners who put in the work during the offseason of getting better, as well as newcomers in transfers and incoming freshmen. The group has been working hard in preseason and are gelling as a team."

The CCAC Tournament is set to begin Feb. 23, with seedings and locations determined by regular-season results.

All IU Northwest home games will be streamed live on JED TV. Season tickets will be available for purchase at the ticket booth.

Fans can view the complete schedule HERE