What’s Next for EA Sports? NCAA 26 & the Return of College Basketball?
Posted: Sat Jul 12, 2025 3:44 am
Following the successful return of EA Sports College Football with NCAA 25, EA has built strong momentum heading into NCAA 26, which launched in July 2025. This newest installment represents a more polished and expansive experience, with deeper game modes, improved AI, and enhanced authenticity across all levels of gameplay. The reception to NCAA 26 has reinforced EA Sports’ strategy of positioning the franchise as a long-term pillar in its sports gaming lineup.
Looking ahead, industry trends and insider speculation strongly suggest that annual releases of NCAA College Football will continue. These future titles are expected to deliver iterative upgrades in key areas—particularly in Dynasty and Road to Glory modes—while refining player progression, recruiting systems, and overall gameplay balance. EA’s current roadmap appears focused on maximizing the depth and longevity of these core experiences while building on the strong foundation laid by CFB 25 and 26.
Beyond football, there’s growing speculation about a return to college basketball gaming. The reintroduction of player likenesses through NIL rules has resolved many of the licensing barriers that once shelved EA’s NCAA Basketball series over a decade ago. With a revitalized college football product now thriving, fan demand for a next-gen college basketball game is louder than ever.
A modern college basketball game would likely benefit from many of the same systems used in NCAA Football—such as customizable rosters, career modes, dynamic recruiting, and enhanced presentation. If EA chooses to re-enter that space, they’d have the opportunity to build on their current engine and licensing frameworks to deliver a truly immersive experience.
In the short term, however, EA’s energy remains centered on evolving NCAA College Football. New features such as dynamic weather, trophy room expansions, and strategic systems like Wear & Tear suggest a strong commitment to authenticity and longevity. The in-game economy, including Ultimate Team, continues to grow in importance, with many players investing time—and CFB 26 Coins or cheap CFB 26 Coins—to build powerful rosters and compete online.
NCAA 26 has solidified EA’s foothold in the college sports market, and the future looks bright. While college football will continue to be the focal point for now, the return of college basketball appears increasingly likely, driven by fan enthusiasm and EA’s revitalized relationship with collegiate licensing.
Looking ahead, industry trends and insider speculation strongly suggest that annual releases of NCAA College Football will continue. These future titles are expected to deliver iterative upgrades in key areas—particularly in Dynasty and Road to Glory modes—while refining player progression, recruiting systems, and overall gameplay balance. EA’s current roadmap appears focused on maximizing the depth and longevity of these core experiences while building on the strong foundation laid by CFB 25 and 26.
Beyond football, there’s growing speculation about a return to college basketball gaming. The reintroduction of player likenesses through NIL rules has resolved many of the licensing barriers that once shelved EA’s NCAA Basketball series over a decade ago. With a revitalized college football product now thriving, fan demand for a next-gen college basketball game is louder than ever.
A modern college basketball game would likely benefit from many of the same systems used in NCAA Football—such as customizable rosters, career modes, dynamic recruiting, and enhanced presentation. If EA chooses to re-enter that space, they’d have the opportunity to build on their current engine and licensing frameworks to deliver a truly immersive experience.
In the short term, however, EA’s energy remains centered on evolving NCAA College Football. New features such as dynamic weather, trophy room expansions, and strategic systems like Wear & Tear suggest a strong commitment to authenticity and longevity. The in-game economy, including Ultimate Team, continues to grow in importance, with many players investing time—and CFB 26 Coins or cheap CFB 26 Coins—to build powerful rosters and compete online.
NCAA 26 has solidified EA’s foothold in the college sports market, and the future looks bright. While college football will continue to be the focal point for now, the return of college basketball appears increasingly likely, driven by fan enthusiasm and EA’s revitalized relationship with collegiate licensing.