The CBS Sports Classic has become a staple in college basketball, bringing together four of the game’s most storied programs—Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio State, and UCLA. While the matchups rotate annually, the competition consistently delivers marquee games. This year, the Kentucky Wildcats face the Ohio State Buckeyes, while UCLA takes on North Carolina.
For Kentucky, this isn’t just another game—it’s a chance to rewrite a puzzling chapter in their history. Despite being one of college basketball’s most successful programs, the Wildcats have struggled in the CBS Sports Classic, particularly against Ohio State.
A Rocky Road in the CBS Sports Classic
Since the event’s inception, Kentucky has compiled a 5-5 record. While their dominance over North Carolina (4-1) has bolstered their performance in the Classic, their struggles against Ohio State and UCLA stand out. Against the Bruins, Kentucky holds a 1-2 record. But it’s their 0-2 mark against the Buckeyes in this event that raises the most eyebrows.
The Wildcats and Buckeyes have clashed twice in the CBS Sports Classic:
- 2015: Ohio State edged out a 74-67 victory.
- 2019: The Buckeyes prevailed again, 71-65.
Despite these setbacks, the all-time series between Kentucky and Ohio State leans in the Wildcats’ favor, 11-10. Kentucky also has fond memories of a high-stakes win over the Buckeyes in the 2011 Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament. However, in the context of the CBS Sports Classic, Ohio State has managed to flip the script.
A Chance to Flip the Narrative
This year, Kentucky is looking to change the narrative. Head coach Mark Pope leads his Wildcats into Madison Square Garden with momentum and a determination to secure their first win over Ohio State in this event. Playing on the storied court of MSG adds another layer of significance to the game, offering Kentucky a chance to cement their place as one of college basketball’s elite while exorcising their CBS Sports Classic demons.
Ohio State enters the matchup as an unpredictable opponent. The Buckeyes have leaned heavily on perimeter shooting and fast-paced play this season but have shown vulnerabilities in interior defense and foul discipline. These weaknesses could be ripe for exploitation by Kentucky, which boasts a versatile roster capable of dominating in the post and from beyond the arc.
What’s at Stake
For Kentucky, a win on Saturday would mean more than just evening their record against Ohio State in the CBS Sports Classic. It would symbolize a step forward for a team that has faced mixed results in recent seasons and a chance to solidify their standing in a competitive college basketball landscape.
The Wildcats are also chasing a rare feat. They haven’t won both the CBS Sports Classic and the Champions Classic in the same season since 2016. Having already defeated Duke in the Champions Classic earlier this year, a victory over Ohio State would make 2024 a landmark season for Kentucky in these marquee events.
CBS Sports Classic – Team Records pic.twitter.com/WQHj09ONU4
— Rare Rookies #BBN (@rarerookies) December 19, 2024
Game Details
The Kentucky vs. Ohio State showdown will take place at the iconic Madison Square Garden in New York City. Tip-off is scheduled for approximately 5:30 PM EST, following the UCLA vs. North Carolina matchup. Fans can catch the action live on CBS or stream it online at CBSSports.com.
Can Kentucky Break the Streak?
Saturday’s game is more than a battle between two storied programs—it’s an opportunity for Kentucky to reclaim their dominance in the CBS Sports Classic and finally notch a win against Ohio State in this setting. With the bright lights of Madison Square Garden as the stage, the Wildcats will look to make a statement and end their CBS Sports Classic frustrations once and for all.