RIVERSIDE, Calif. — UC Riverside softball has announced its 2026 schedule, highlighted by a demanding nonconference slate and a full Big West Conference schedule that opens in early March.

The Highlanders open the season Feb. 6–8 at the UCLA Tournament, facing Utah, Loyola Marymount, Utah Tech, University of Northern Colorado and UCLA. UCR will also host Team Japan for a home doubleheader on Feb. 15 before meeting the international squad again at the Mary Nutter Collegiate Classic, where the Highlanders will also face San Diego State, Nevada, Texas Tech and Utah.

"I am very excited about the start of the 2026 season. We have added athleticism and depth to our squad and have felt an immediate impact" said coach Brittney Matta. "The goal will always be to play tough competition and push ourselves to be the very best. Playing Top 25 competition will propel us in every way."

Additional nonconference highlights include a home matchup against North Dakota State, as well as the ASU/GCU Invitational, featuring matchups with Arizona State, UNLV and Grand Canyon, along with midweek road games at California Baptist.

Big West Conference play begins March 7–8 on the road at CSUN. UC Riverside's home conference opener follows March 13–14 against Long Beach State. The Highlanders will also host UC Santa Barbara, UC Davis and Hawai'i, while traveling to Cal Poly, UC San Diego, Cal State Fullerton and Cal State Bakersfield during league play.

The season concludes with the Big West Championship, scheduled for May 6–9 at a neutral site.

For tickets and updated schedule information please visit gohighlanders.com.