The Armed Forces Classic is an annual college basketball game played at military bases around the world. It started in 2012 and has featured some of the top teams and players in NCAA Division I men’s basketball. Getting tickets to the Armed Forces Classic can be a unique experience for sports fans, allowing you to see high-level basketball in an unusual setting like an aircraft carrier or military hangar. Here is a guide to help you understand what the Armed Forces Classic is, when and where it takes place, and how to get tickets to this special event.
What is the Armed Forces Classic?
The Armed Forces Classic is a regular season college basketball game that takes place on an active military base. It was created in 2012 as a partnership between ESPN Events, the Department of Defense, and a number of top NCAA Division I basketball programs. The aim of the event is to honor and celebrate U.S. military personnel, veterans, and their families.
The first Armed Forces Classic was played in 2012 on the decommissioned USS Yorktown aircraft carrier in Charleston, South Carolina. The game featured the Michigan State Spartans vs the Connecticut Huskies. Since then, the annual event has been held at other military bases around the world. Venues have included hangars and tarmacs at places like Coast Guard Air Station Borinquen in Puerto Rico, the Stan Sheriff Center in Hawaii, and Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler in Okinawa, Japan.
The Armed Forces Classic was canceled in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But it returned for the 2022-23 season with a matchup between the Gonzaga Bulldogs and Michigan State Spartans at the USS Abraham Lincoln in San Diego on November 11, 2022.
Some of the top teams to compete in the Armed Forces Classic include Michigan State, Gonzaga, Virginia, North Carolina, Ohio State, Kansas, and Oklahoma. The games have drawn many prominent head coaches as well, such as Tom Izzo, Mark Few, Roy Williams, Bill Self, and others. It provides great early season matchups between powerhouse programs.
In addition to the actual game, the Armed Forces Classic weekend features other activities to honor the military. These include tributes, special uniforms, coaching clinics, meet-and-greets, and tours of the host base facilities. It is an opportunity to celebrate service members through the shared love of college basketball.
When and Where is the 2023 Armed Forces Classic?
The next Armed Forces Classic is scheduled for November 10, 2023. The two teams that will compete are the Kentucky Wildcats vs the Michigan State Spartans.
The 2023 event will be held at the XXXX military base in XXXX. The exact venue on the base is still to be determined. Previous Armed Forces Classics have taken place on the flight decks of aircraft carriers, as well as in hangars, gyms, and converted airplane maintenance facilities.
Here is an overview of the Armed Forces Classic schedule for 2023:
– Date: Friday, November 10, 2023
– Matchup: Kentucky vs Michigan State
– Location: XXXX military base in XXXX
– Projected tip-off time: 5pm or 7pm ET (television coverage on ESPN)
The two programs taking part, Kentucky and Michigan State, are among the most storied in college basketball. They have a combined 9 NCAA championships between them. This early season showdown will feature loads of talent and athleticism on the rosters of both teams.
Stay tuned for more details on ticketing and other events surrounding the 2023 Armed Forces Classic as ESPN finalizes plans with the host military base. But save the date on your calendar if you want to attend this unique basketball experience next November!
How to Get Tickets for the 2023 Armed Forces Classic
Getting tickets to the 2023 Armed Forces Classic will require persistence and good timing. Here is a rundown of some key things to know about the ticketing process:
– Limited general public tickets – Most tickets are reserved for military personnel and their families stationed at the host base. Only a small allotment gets released for the general public.
– Lottery/registration system – In recent years, ticketing has been handled through a lottery-style registration system online. Fans must sign up for the ticket lottery in advance and seats are then awarded through random drawings.
– Timing – Registration for the ticket lottery usually opens 4-6 months prior to the event. The exact dates and ticketing website should be announced in Spring/Summer 2023. Act fast once registration opens to maximize your chances.
– Secondary market – Leftover tickets often get resold on secondary markets like VividSeats, StubHub, SeatGeek, etc. But expect major markups and premium prices on these limited secondhand tickets.
– Travel packages – Organized travel groups like Anthony Travel often get ticket blocks for the Armed Forces Classic. Travel packages with airfare, hotels, and event tickets can provide easier access. But they come at a premium cost.
– ESPN contacts – Having contacts at ESPN or with the host military base is extremely helpful to access the limited tickets. But those connections are rare for most fans.
To recap, getting tickets is competitive due to high demand and low supply. Join the online ticket registration as soon as it opens. Be ready to act fast and pay more than face value if you want to guarantee seats through secondary sellers. Ultimately, flexibility and tenacity are key to scoring the coveted tickets to the 2023 Armed Forces Classic.
Booking Flights and Hotels for the Armed Forces Classic
Once you secure tickets, the next step is booking flights and hotels to attend the 2023 Armed Forces Classic.
Here are some tips for your travel planning:
– Book early – As soon as the location is announced, research flight and hotel options. Prices will start high and inventory will be limited.
– Fly into major airport – The event is usually within 1-2 hours of a major airport. Flying into a hub like San Diego, Los Angeles or San Francisco for a West Coast classic provides more options.
– Check military base lodging – Rooms on base often get booked by sponsors/VIPs. But it’s worth looking into hotels on the military base first.
– Use Armed Forces Classic packages – Travel groups like Anthony Travel offer event packages with guaranteed hotels and buses to the game. This simplifies logistics.
– Rental car recommended – Public transportation is unlikely near most bases. Having a rental car allows you to easily explore the area if visiting for a whole weekend.
– Add buffer days – Build in some flexibility in case of travel delays. Arrive a day early and depart a day or two after the event.
– Book refundable rate – In case plans change, make sure to book a refundable hotel rate. This provides cancellation flexibility.
Again, act fast once the destination is set. Demand for flights and hotels will be frenzied from fans converging on the military base. Use services like Expedia or work with a travel agent to make arrangements efficiently. Enjoy exploring the host city when you’re not watching basketball on a battleship!
What to Expect at the Armed Forces Classic Game
Attending the Armed Forces Classic is a bucket list sports experience. If you’re lucky enough to score tickets, here is a glimpse of what to expect on gameday:
– Arrive early – Gates typically open 1-2 hours beforehand. Get there when gates open to witness pregame warmups and soak in the unique venue.
– Seats are general admission – Seating is first-come, first-served. Rush to get courtside seats or sit behind one of the benches.
– Bring a jacket – November games can get chilly, especially on an exposed military base. Check the forecast and dress appropriately.
– Entertainment and tributes – Pregame and halftime activities honor different branches and units. Stay engaged even when the teams are off the court.
– Limited concessions – Food/drink options are usually minimal. Eat beforehand and be prepared for only basics like hot dogs and soda onsite.
– Souvenirs – Trading patches and pins with service members is a great way to commemorate the day. And merchandise booths have event-exclusive gear.
– Security screening – Expect airport-style screening to access the base. Leave prohibited items behind and arrive early to accommodate for checks.
– Patriotic atmosphere – The crowd will be filled with energetic service members. Cheers of “USA, USA” break out frequently. Enjoy the patriotic environment.
The Armed Forces Classic is more than just a basketball game. Take time to soak in the incredible backdrop and appreciate the heroes in the stands who make this event possible.
Armed Forces Classic Travel Tips
Attending a college basketball game on a military base comes with some unique circumstances. Here are handy travel tips to maximize your Armed Forces Classic experience:
– Charge devices beforehand – Electrical access may be limited on a ship or remote base. Arrive with phones and cameras fully charged. Bring portable chargers too.
– Print tickets and docs – Spotty WiFi could prevent accessing tickets on your phone. Have printed tickets, maps and other important info on hand.
– Review security rules – Check ahead of time what items are prohibited from being brought on base. Abide by all local security guidelines and screening.
– Pack food and water – Concessions will be limited. Bringing your own snacks, sandwiches, and drinks will ensure you stay fueled up.
– Use waterproof bags – Protect cameras, cell phones and valuables from unexpected drizzle or moisture when walking outdoors between venues.
– Wear comfortable shoes – You’ll be on your feet a lot touring the base before the game. Comfortable footwear like sneakers or casual boots is best.
– Talk to the troops – Strike up friendly conversations with service members to hear their stories and make connections. It’s a rare opportunity.
– Be flexible – Schedules and logistics on an active base are subject to change. Travel delays or changes are common. Go with the flow!
Adhering to security protocols, bringing supplies from outside, and coming with an open mind will enhance your Armed Forces Classic adventure. Enjoy this rare chance to combine basketball, travel and honoring our troops.
History and Results of the Armed Forces Classic
Here is a brief history and list of past game results from the Armed Forces Classic since its inception in 2012:
2012 – Michigan State vs UConn
Location: USS Yorktown in Charleston, SC
Result: Michigan State won 66-62
MVP: Branden Dawson, Michigan State
2013 – Oregon vs Georgetown
Location: Camp Humphreys in Pyeongtaek, South Korea
Result: Oregon won 82-75
MVP: Mike Moser, Oregon
2014 – Michigan State vs Navy
Location: USS San Diego in San Diego, CA
Result: Michigan State won 64-59
MVP: Branden Dawson, Michigan State
2015 – Florida vs Navy
Location: Naval Station Mayport in Jacksonville, FL
Result: Florida won 86-55
MVP: Dorian Finney-Smith, Florida
2016 – Arizona vs Michigan State
Location: Stan Sheriff Center in Honolulu, HI
Result: Arizona won 65-63
MVP: Lauri Markkanen, Arizona
2017 – Michigan State vs North Carolina
Location: Stan Sheriff Center in Honolulu, HI
Result: Michigan State won 63-45
MVP: Miles Bridges, Michigan State
2018 – Kentucky vs Duke
Location: Champions Classic in Indianapolis, IN
Result: Duke won 118-84
MVP: RJ Barrett, Duke
2019 – Oregon vs Michigan State
Location: Stan Sheriff Center in Honolulu, HI
Result: Michigan State won 82-66
MVP: Xavier Tillman, Michigan State
2022 – Gonzaga vs Michigan State
Location: USS Abraham Lincoln in San Diego, CA
Result: Gonzaga won 64-63
MVP: Drew Timme, Gonzaga
2023 Matchup Prediction
The 2023 Armed Forces Classic will feature a top-5 matchup between the Kentucky Wildcats and Michigan State Spartans:
Kentucky Wildcats
– Coach: John Calipari
– 2022-23 record: 26-5 (15-3 SEC)
– Key returners: Oscar Tshiebwe, Cason Wallace, Sahvir Wheeler
– Preseason ranking: #4
Michigan State Spartans
– Coach: Tom Izzo
– 2022-23 record: 23-8 (13-5 Big Ten)
– Key returners: Joey Hauser, Tyson Walker, A.J. Hoggard
– Preseason ranking: #12
Game Prediction: Michigan State upsets Kentucky 76-72
MVP Prediction: Oscar Tshiebwe, Kentucky
This projects as a hotly contested matchup between two consistent powerhouses and veteran coaches. Michigan State already has tons of experience playing in the Armed Forces Classic under Coach Izzo. Kentucky will rely heavily on National Player of the Year Oscar Tshiebwe down low. But the Spartans depth and shooting will overwhelm the Wildcats in the second half. Joey Hauser will sink a clutch three-pointer to seal the historic victory for Michigan State on the military base.
Conclusion
Attending the annual Armed Forces Classic is a uniquely patriotic experience for college basketball fans. This guide provided key details on the history of the event, how to get coveted tickets, travel tips, gameday insight, and a prediction for the 2023 matchup. Plan ahead and be prepared to have an unforgettable basketball adventure at the intersection of sports and honoring our troops. Catch all the action when Michigan State and Kentucky clash next November at the Armed Forces Classic!