Champions Classic history: Greatest moments before Duke, Kansas, Kentucky and Michigan State meet again
Michigan State delivered overtime drama The 2022 event produced another unforgettable game when Michigan State defeated Kentucky in double overtime.The Spartans' victory demonstrated why the Champions Classic has become so valuable.
Key points
- Kansas and Duke have historically enjoyed the strongest overall records in the event, while Kentucky and Michigan State have produced several memorable victories.
- Michigan State faces Duke in the opening game, followed by Kansas against Kentucky.
- Duke's unforgettable 2018 performance One of the most memorable Champions Classic games came in 2018, when Duke overwhelmed Kentucky 118-84.
Duke and Michigan State will test their ability to handle another national opponent, while Kansas and Kentucky renew one of college basketball's most recognizable rivalries.The results will not determine the national championship, but they could shape early perceptions of each team.
Additional details
- Next up, Champions Classic 🤧 #RockChalk x @meritrustcu https://t.co/pzMcF9nood — Kansas Men’s Basketball (@KUHoops) November 7, 2026 The participants have combined for 19 NCAA men's basketball championships, making the event one of the most prestigious annual gatherings in the sport.
- A tradition built around college basketball royalty The Champions Classic began in 2011 and has featured the same four programs throughout its history.
- The Champions Classic brings four major programs together and creates the possibility of another performance that people will remember for years.
- College basketball's Champions Classic returns Tuesday with another doubleheader featuring four of the sport's most recognizable programs.
- Chicago will host the Champions Classic for the fifth time, tying Madison Square Garden for the most appearances as the event's location.
How this summary was made: extractive summary — built from the sources' own reporting. It is drawn only from the reporting of the sources listed below — read the originals for full detail. How we summarize →
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