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OREM — Utah Valley University men’s basketball will spend Thanksgiving week in paradise as the Wolverines are set to compete in the 2025 Cancun Challenge at the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya in Mexico. The event, powered by Triple Crown Sports, is in its 19th season and is scheduled for Nov. 25–26.
Utah Valley is one of six teams in this year’s field, which also includes Georgia State, New Mexico State, Samford, South Dakota State, and UC Irvine. All six programs will play a pair of games in Riviera Maya, with matchups staged in a converted ballroom just steps from the resort hotel.
The Wolverines will first host UC Irvine in Orem on Wednesday, Nov. 19 as part of the U.S. campus games. UVU will then travel to Mexico to face South Dakota State on Tuesday, Nov. 25 at 4 p.m. MT, followed by a matchup with Samford on Wednesday, Nov. 26 at 4 p.m. MT.
“This is an incredible opportunity for our program, players, and fans,” said Utah Valley head coach Todd Phillips. “The Cancun Challenge is one of the premier early-season tournaments in college basketball, and we’re excited to represent UVU on an international stage while facing high-level competition.”
The Cancun Challenge annually features strong programs from across the country. In addition to competitive games, student-athletes, coaches, and fans enjoy a unique experience with the all-inclusive resort atmosphere.
More information, including ticket and fan package details, is available at CancunChallenge.net.
Utah Valley’s 2025 Cancun Challenge Schedule
Wednesday, Nov. 19 (U.S. Campus Game)
UC Irvine at Utah Valley – 6 p.m. MT
Tuesday, Nov. 25 (Riviera Maya, Mexico)
Utah Valley vs. South Dakota State – 4 p.m. MT
Wednesday, Nov. 26 (Riviera Maya, Mexico)
Utah Valley vs. Samford – 4 p.m. MT