The CBS Sports Classic is a yearly showcase featuring four consistent teams: Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio State, and UCLA. The matchups and locations change annually, but the Wildcats have had an unusual history in this event, with mixed success against their opponents.
While Kentucky is often regarded as a basketball powerhouse, their record in the CBS Sports Classic reveals surprising struggles. Despite consistently defeating North Carolina (4-1), they have a losing record against UCLA (1-2) and have never beaten Ohio State in this particular event, losing to the Buckeyes in both 2015 and 2019. Interestingly, Kentucky’s difficulties extend beyond individual matchups. They haven’t won both the CBS Sports Classic and the Champions Classic in the same season since 2016.
This year, Kentucky already secured a victory in the Champions Classic by defeating Duke, raising questions about whether they can finally break their CBS Sports Classic streak. A win over Ohio State this Saturday at Madison Square Garden could mark a turning point, mirroring successful runs like those in 2014 and 2016.
Tip-off is scheduled for 5:30 PM EST, with coverage available on CBS. Will the Wildcats finally conquer the Buckeyes and rewrite their CBS Sports Classic history? Basketball fans won’t want to miss this thrilling matchup.