ESPN Events celebrates 15th edition of the State Farm® Champions Classic
Stephanie Grant reflects on the men’s college basketball event that returns to Madison Square Garden where it originated in 2011
Stephanie Grant has worked on the Champions Classic since its first year in 2011. As the event reaches its 15th edition, the Director of Events & Basketball Operations reflected on what this event represents for ESPN Events.
“Being able to start the college basketball season with these four historic programs and their fans is not only a win for ESPN Events but also our company,” Grant said. “For the ESPN Events team this represents having ownership in one of the biggest nights in college basketball.”
“The State Farm Champions Classic is one of the more unique events we own and operate,” Clint Overby, Vice President of ESPN Events, noted. “Stephanie has played a key role in working with [the schools] in creating one of the largest stages on the college basketball calendar … for 15 years this event has stood as the standard bearer of early season basketball and Stephanie has played a significant role in its success.”
This year’s event includes several anniversary elements.
“As fans arrive, they will have the opportunity to take photos with our 3D event logo and purchase a commemorative ticket, along with new merchandise highlighting the anniversary,” Grant said. Halftime performances will feature Red Panda and Simon Sez, along with “a look back at some memorable moments of the last 15 years.”
Fans watching on television will see the “special 15th anniversary logo on air along with a special custom court design.”
Grant pointed to the matchups and the on-site studio presence.
“Great matchups this year with Michigan State taking on Kentucky and Kansas playing Duke,” she said. “All four teams are currently ranked in the top 25 … both College GameDay and the CFP Top 25 Rankings Show will be broadcasting live from the Madison Square Garden court.”
“I think the best behind-the-scenes moments are working with each of the teams,” Grant said, reflecting on years past. “We have been able to develop a longstanding partnership with each program … like presenting Coach K with a small gift when he retired.”
Pregame coverage begins at 6 p.m. ET on ESPN with College GameDay Covered by State Farm® live from Madison Square Garden, followed by an ESPN doubleheader with No. 17 Michigan State and No. 12 Kentucky (6:30 p.m.) and No. 24 Kansas and No. 5 Duke (9 p.m.).
