Hope Gas Backyard Basketball Classic

PPG Paints Arena will become the center of the college basketball world on Wednesday, December 9, 2026, as the Hope Gas Backyard Basketball Classic brings four of the region's premier programs together for a special doubleheader featuring University of Pittsburgh vs. West Virginia University and Robert Morris University vs. Duquesne University. The highly anticipated event will showcase two compelling regional matchups in one of Pittsburgh's premier sports and entertainment venues, giving fans an opportunity to experience an entire night of college basketball featuring four programs with deep local ties and passionate fan bases. The evening will feature Robert Morris taking on Duquesne, and the marquee matchup between Pitt and West Virginia in another chapter of the storied Backyard Brawl rivalry.