Butler to Face Georgia Tech in Indy Classic

Indianapolis — Butler will square off against Georgia Tech at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Dec. 19 as part of the Indy Classic, the Indiana Sports Corp announced Thursday. The matchup marks the first-ever meeting between the Bulldogs and Yellow Jackets, and arrives as both programs navigate major transitions. Butler is reshaping under first-year coach Ronald Nored, while Georgia Tech brings in Scott Cross after stints at Texas‑Arlington and Troy.

When and Where

The game is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 19, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. It will be the ninth contest on Butler’s 2026‑27 docket, which begins with an exhibition against Indiana State on Oct. 10. Georgia Tech arrives fresh off a summer roster rebuild under new leadership.

Early Season Battle

Both coaches are looking to imprint their philosophies early. Nored, a former Butler player turned NBA assistant, is rebuilding the Bulldogs’ roster, while Cross is bringing his Texas‑Arlington/Troy system to the Yellow Jackets. The Indy Classic pairing gives each side a marquee test before Big East and ACC play begin.

Full Butler Schedule

• Sat., Oct. 10: vs. Indiana State (exhibition)
• Mon., Nov. 2: vs. Lafayette
• Wed., Nov. 4: vs. Fairleigh Dickinson
• Sun., Nov. 8: at Boise State
• Fri., Nov. 13: vs. Pittsburgh
• Tues., Nov. 17: vs. Western Carolina
• Sun., Nov. 22: vs. Nebraska in Chicago
• Fri., Nov. 27: vs. Bellarmine
• Sun., Dec. 6: at North Carolina
• Sat., Dec. 19: vs. Georgia Tech at Gainbridge Fieldhouse

The Other Indy Classic Contest

Purdue will face Colorado in the second game of the classic, giving the Boilermakers a early test against a Mountain West opponent. Both the Purdue‑Colorado and Butler‑Georgia Tech tilts are highlighted as marquee early‑season showcases for the Indy Classic. Fans can expect a packed schedule that kicks off the college basketball season in style.

After the December action, Butler returns home for Big East play. The Bulldogs’ new look will be on full display when the conference schedule kicks off later in the year.

Ronald Nored’s Arrival Visuals

Nored, then coaching the Atlanta Hawks in the 2024 NBA Summer League, directs his squad against the Washington Wizards in Las Vegas. The experience showcases his early steps into professional coaching after a distinguished playing career. The Wizards ultimately prevailed 94‑88, offering Nored valuable lessons for his college ascent.

The former Long Island Nets bench boss argues a referee’s decision during a contest with the Wisconsin Herd, highlighting his hands‑on approach. This moment illustrates his willingness to challenge calls, a trait he will likely bring to player development at Butler. The encounter took place at Menominee Nation Arena in December 2017.

Indiana assistant Nored works with Tyrese Haliburton during warmups before a Pacers game, underscoring his growing reputation as a strategist. This collaboration points to the blend of veteran poise and youthful energy he will aim to replicate with the Bulldogs. The session was captured at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in February 2022.

Nored drills players during Pacers practice at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, emphasizing the fundamentals that will shape Butler’s defensive identity. This disciplined environment reflects the work ethic he hopes to instill in his new roster. The scene was filmed on a chilly February afternoon in 2022.

On the bench with the Bucks, Nored exchanges composure with the locker room as the Pacers battle Milwaukee. This moment captures his ability to remain level‑headed under pressure, a trait he’ll need as a head coach. The game unfolded on Feb. 15, 2022, at Fiserv Forum.

As a celebrated former player, Nored delivered an inspiring speech at Butler’s Hall of Fame ceremony, reflecting on his journey. His words underscore the pride he carries for the program he now leads. The event took place on Sept. 9, 2021, at historic Hinkle Fieldhouse.