Match Day: Solar Bears and Stingrays Face Off at Kia Center

Puck Drop in the City Beautiful: Solar Bears Host the Stingrays

Sunday, February 1, 2026, brings high-stakes professional hockey to the heart of Downtown Orlando. The Orlando Solar Bears return to their home ice this afternoon for a pivotal South Division clash against the South Carolina Stingrays. As the primary professional sports action taking place in the city today, this matchup promises intense competition and a festive atmosphere for local sports fans looking to catch live action.

Game Time and Venue Details

The doors at the Kia Center will open early for fans to prepare for a 3:00 PM EST puck drop. The venue, a staple of Orlando’s sports district, provides an electric backdrop for the Solar Bears, who serve as the ECHL affiliate of the three-time Stanley Cup champion Tampa Bay Lightning. Today’s contest is a critical mid-season fixture as both teams battle for crucial points in the South Division standings.

Team Matchup: Orlando vs. South Carolina

The Solar Bears face a disciplined opponent today in the South Carolina Stingrays, the ECHL affiliate of the Washington Capitals. These two rivals have a long history of physical and closely contested games. Fans can expect a battle of strategies between the pipes and along the boards:

• Orlando Solar Bears: The home team has relied on a stout defensive rotation in recent weeks. Watch for the Bears to use their home-ice advantage to dictate the physical pace of the game early in the first period.
• South Carolina Stingrays: The visiting Stingrays are known for their quick transition game and efficient power-play units. Orlando's penalty kill will need to be sharp to keep the visitors off the board.

Sunday Funday and Promotions

Today’s matchup is designated as a "Sunday Funday" at the Kia Center, featuring "Faith and Family Day" promotions. Presented by Portillo’s, the event is tailored for families and younger fans, offering specialized entertainment and activities throughout the intermissions. Sunday matinees have become a tradition in Orlando, providing a professional sports experience that is accessible to all ages.

Local Sports Update

While the Solar Bears take center stage in town, other major Orlando franchises are active elsewhere. The Orlando Magic are currently away, facing the San Antonio Spurs in Texas this afternoon. Meanwhile, the city’s professional soccer teams, Orlando City SC and the Orlando Pride, are currently in their pre-season training phases. For fans staying in the City Beautiful today, the Kia Center is the definitive destination for professional sports excitement.