The George Washington University’s Nov. 16 men’s basketball game against the University of Virginia will air on national TV as part of ESPN’s eighth annual Tip-Off Marathon, the network announced Monday.
The game, scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at the Charles E. Smith Center, will air on ESPN2 and will be the first of 15 men’s games the network will carry on Nov. 16 and 17. GW played in eight ESPN games last season, going 6-2 in those contests, including a February overtime victory vs. the University of Dayton and a win over then-No. 11 Wichita State University in the championship game of the Diamond Head Classic in December.
Tip-off Marathon
GW vs. Virginia
When: Monday, Nov. 16, 7:30 p.m.
Where: Charles E. Smith Center
TV: ESPN2
The game against Virginia marks GW’s first appearance in the 24-hour ESPN marathon.
“ESPN’s decision to broadcast our showdown with Virginia as the first men’s game during their 24 hours of basketball is further proof of the extraordinary atmosphere created at the Smith Center during our home games,” said Director of Athletics and Recreation Patrick Nero. “Our fans, Colonial Army and students do a tremendous job supporting our student-athletes, and the team’s success shows that. We are thrilled to once again welcome ESPN to the Smith Center for what will be an exciting night for our fan base.”
The Colonials, who finished 22-13 last season and reached the second round of the National Invitation Tournament, are seeking their third straight 20-win season under fifth-year head coach Mike Lonergan. GW is 26-3 at home the last two seasons.
GW and Virginia met last November in Charlottesville, Va., with the Cavaliers pulling away in the second half for a 59-42 victory. Virginia is coming off back-to-back 30-win seasons under head coach Tony Bennett.
