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The Gonzaga State University and Michigan State University men’s basketball teams will face off on November 11th at USS Abraham Lincoln in Coronado, California, as part of ESPN’s Army Classic. Associated Press..
It will be the first game on an aircraft carrier since 2012.
Michigan State University played against USS Carl Vinson in the 2011 Career Classic, losing 67-55 to North Carolina. Coach Tom Izzohead of Michigan State University called this “one of the most humble experiences of my career.”
“Obviously we wanted to win. The match against such a program is very special, but for me the match was more than just a win or loss,” he added in a statement. ..
“This opportunity to play on an aircraft carrier in front of men and women who are in the army and are willing to fight for their lives will be a meaningful experience for young men playing games for a long time. As I said last time, again, we will play one of the best teams in the country and will be hosted by the best team in the world. “
Playing against Gonzaga will be part of a tough stretch for Spartans.
John Rossstein @Jon Rothstein
Michigan State University November Slate:
Gonzaga (SD)
Kentucky (Champions Classic)
Villanova (Gabit Game)
PK85 (UNC, Portland, UConn, Nova, Bama, Oregon, Iowa Street)
With ND (ACC / Big Ten)“My advice to you is to start drinking in large quantities.”-John Belushi, the role of Brute in Animal House around 1978. https://t.co/BjpLTh9c8S
Bulldog head coach Mark Few shared similar feelings with Izzo about playing for USS Abraham Lincoln on Veterans Day.
“This is a special opportunity for our program to help those who fight in our own little way for our country,” he said in a statement. “I’m excited to meet Michigan State University’s great program and Izo coach’s great colleagues. I’m sure this will be a great memory for all of us.”
In 2012, many games scheduled for aircraft carriers were affected by rain, wind, or condensation on the court, causing delays and cancellations, affecting the quality of play. Clint Overby, vice president of ESPN’s event, said he would plan for Mother Nature’s disapproval, which could be a problem 10 years from now.
Whether it’s bad weather or not, it promises to be a unique event.
“The people who serve, and those who serve, know that the army is the ultimate team sport,” said Admiral Kenneth Whitesell, commander of the Navy Air Force. Kirk Kenny of San Diego Union Tribune.. “I can’t think of a better way to salute our men and women in uniform than to celebrate this national entertainment together on one of our capital ships.”
