The 76 Classic, to be played over the 2009 Thanksgiving weekend in Anaheim, Calif. will feature five 2007-08 NCAA tournament participants. Those schools scheduled to compete in the ESPN-produced tournament are UCLA (Pac-10), Texas A&M (Big 12), West Virginia (Big East) Long Beach State (Big West), Clemson (ACC), Butler (Horizon), Minnesota (Big 10) and Portland (West Coast). Times and pairings for the tournament will be announced at a later date.
All games will be played at the Anaheim Convention Center. The tournament will have games on Nov. 26, 27 and 29, 2009.
"Once again, an outstanding field will represent conferences from around the
country for the 76 Classic," said Pete Derzis, senior vice president and
general manager, ESPN Regional Television. "The Anaheim Classic showcases
quality competition and an outstanding off-court experience for the
student-athletes, coaches and staff. Fans will have an opportunity to spend the Thanksgiving weekend watching college basketball and enjoying Disneyland, along with all
Southern California has to offer."
The Big West Conference will serve as the host at the 7,800-seat Anaheim Convention Center, which has served the conference for the past nine years as the site of its postseason tournament. The 76 Classic features four games each day, with the two undefeated teams competing in the
championship game on ESPN2 on the final day.