The 2025 CBS Sports Classic will feature a high-profile matchup between the Kentucky Wildcats and the St. John’s Red Storm.
In a significant development for college basketball, the 2025 CBS Sports Classic will feature a high-profile matchup between the Kentucky Wildcats and the St. John’s Red Storm. This game, scheduled for December 20, 2025, in Atlanta, marks a reunion between Kentucky head coach Mark Pope and his former coach Rick Pitino, who now leads St. John’s. The contest replaces UCLA, which is no longer part of the event lineup due to conference realignment.
🏀 A Storied Reunion: Pitino vs. Pope
Rick Pitino’s tenure at Kentucky from 1989 to 1997 was marked by significant achievements, including leading the Wildcats to a national championship in 1996. Mark Pope, who played under Pitino during that era, was a key member of the 1996 championship team. Their relationship has evolved from player-coach to colleagues in the coaching profession. Pope succeeded John Calipari as Kentucky’s head coach in 2024, and Pitino took the helm at St. John’s in 2023.
The upcoming game not only serves as a competitive matchup but also as a celebration of the 30th anniversary of Kentucky’s 1996 national title. The contest is expected to draw significant attention, given the historical context and the personal connection between the two coaches.
🔄 Changes in the CBS Sports Classic Lineup
Traditionally, the CBS Sports Classic has featured four teams: Kentucky, UCLA, North Carolina, and Ohio State. However, due to conference realignment, UCLA and Ohio State are now in the same conference, leading to UCLA’s departure from the event. This change opened the door for St. John’s to participate, adding a new dynamic to the showcase.
The inclusion of St. John’s brings a fresh storyline to the Classic, highlighting the evolving landscape of college basketball and the impact of coaching changes on team matchups.
🔥 Anticipated Impact of the Matchup
The Kentucky-St. John’s game is expected to be a highly competitive and emotionally charged affair. Under Pitino’s leadership, St. John’s has experienced a resurgence, capturing the Big East Championship and securing a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament with a 31-5 record. Pitino’s coaching philosophy emphasizes defense and disciplined play, which has been evident in St. John’s performance.
On the other hand, Kentucky, under Pope’s guidance, reached the Sweet 16 in the NCAA Tournament, showcasing a blend of experienced leadership and emerging talent. Pope’s familiarity with Pitino’s coaching style adds an intriguing layer to the matchup, as both coaches understand each other’s strategies and philosophies.
The game is anticipated to be a strategic battle, with both teams looking to assert their dominance on the national stage. The personal connection between the coaches adds an emotional element, making the contest even more compelling for fans and participants alike.
📅 Looking Ahead: Future Series Between Kentucky and St. John’s
Beyond the CBS Sports Classic, Kentucky and St. John’s have agreed to a home-and-home series to further their rivalry. The first game is scheduled to take place at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky, in 2026, followed by a return game at Madison Square Garden in New York City in 2027. This series aims to honor the 30th anniversary of Kentucky’s 1996 national championship team and to continue the legacy of competition between the two programs.
The establishment of this series reflects the mutual respect between Pitino and Pope and their commitment to providing high-level competition for their teams. It also underscores the importance of non-conference matchups in college basketball scheduling, offering teams opportunities to test themselves against quality opponents.
The 2025 CBS Sports Classic between Kentucky and St. John’s is more than just a basketball game; it is a celebration of coaching legacies, team histories, and the enduring spirit of college basketball. With the personal connection between coaches Pitino and Pope, the historical significance of the 1996 national championship, and the competitive nature of both teams, the matchup promises to be a memorable event for fans and participants alike.
As college basketball continues to evolve, games like this highlight the rich traditions and narratives that make the sport compelling. The Kentucky-St. John’s game is set to be a highlight of the 2025-26 season and a testament to the enduring impact of coaching and competition in college basketball.
