2017 Jimmy V Men’s Basketball Classic field announced

The 2017 Jimmy V Men’s Basketball Classic had its field announced on Monday, with four established programs and two incredible matchups set to take place at Madison Square Garden in New York City. The 23rd annual classic will take place on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017, and will feature UConn, Gonzaga, Syracuse and Villanova.

UConn will face off against Syracuse and Gonzaga takes on Villanova.

Tip-off times have yet to be announced.

“We are thrilled to welcome these storied programs to the annual Jimmy V Classic,” said Clint Overby, Vice President, ESPN Events in a statement. “To have Syracuse and UConn continue their long-standing rivalry, and to start a new series between Villanova and Gonzaga, will make for great basketball during such an important and meaningful Jimmy V Classic.”

The 2017 Jimmy V Classic will mark 94th meeting between Syracuse and UConn, dating back to 1956. The Orange own the 55-37 series advantage over their former Big East rival. 

“We enjoy playing in New York City as much as any road venue in the country and Madison Square Garden is a familiar location for our fans, as well. The fact that it is the Jimmy V Classic is special to our program as well. Coach Valvano and our program have shared a commitment to finding a cure for cancer. Syracuse is proud to participate in this game,” said Syracuse head coach Jim Boeheim.

 Gonzaga and Villanova will be meeting for the first time in program history.

“Having had the chance to spend some time with Coach Valvano as a Villanova assistant coach, it’s always been an honor for me to take our team to Madison Square Garden for this special night of college basketball. The V Foundation is a tribute to Jim’s vision and optimism. We look forward to taking on an Mark’s outstanding Gonzaga program as we work together in the fight against cancer,” added Villanova’s Jay Wright.

The 2016 edition of the Jimmy V Classic takes place tomorrow, featuring No. 18 Purdue vs. Arizona State and No. 21 Florida against No. 5 Duke.

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AP Top 25 College Basketball Rankings – Week 5
AP Top 25 College Basketball Rankings – Week 5