The college basketball clash between Kentucky and Michigan will no longer take place in London this December.
The Hall of Fame Classic, due to be held at The 02 on December 6, is the latest victim of the coronavirus crisis with the game, almost inevitably, postponed.
It has been pushed back by two years to December 4 2022, organisers confirmed and will also include a meeting between Maris College and UMBC
“As we navigate these unprecedented times, the Basketball Hall of Fame has remained vigilant in placing health and safety above all else,†said John L. Doleva, the president and CEO of the Basketball Hall of Fame, in a statement.
“Unfortunately, the unknown combination of health, safety, international travel regulations and the economic viability for all parties involved has required us to postpone this highly anticipated event at The O2.
“We look forward to hosting a fantastic event in 2022.â€
The college basketball showcase was due to be the second part of the NCAA’s push for popularity in the UK following 2018’s Classic tournament in Belfast.
“We know precautions and new guidelines are being created and used every day due to the coronavirus,” said Michigan coach Juwan Howard in a release.
“The Hall of Fame took the time to review what is happening around the world and explore all options — all the safe options for the teams and most importantly the fans. The best thing is this tremendous event isn’t canceled, it’s just delayed.”
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