The West Virginia Mountaineers and the Kentucky Wildcats are talking about a possible neutral site basketball game on Black Friday. Matt Jones of Kentucky Sports Radio reported that Nashville is the likely location, but nothing’s official yet.
If it happens, this would be their first meeting since January 2018. West Virginia’s non-conference schedule is already packed, with home games against Niagara, Mercyhurst, Virginia Tech, and Coppin State.
They’ll also travel to Pittsburgh and play Wake Forest at a neutral site. On top of that, West Virginia is set for the Players Era Eight, where they’ll face Auburn and then either UNLV or Kansas.
There’s a chance they’ll play one of Houston, Rutgers, Florida, or Notre Dame, depending on how things shake out. No shortage of challenges for the Mountaineers this year.
Potential Black Friday Showdown
There’s a lot of buzz about this possible West Virginia vs. Kentucky game. Nashville gives both teams a neutral spot, which feels fair.
Originally, Kentucky was looking at Illinois for this date, but that didn’t work out. Now, West Virginia’s the likely opponent, and honestly, the excitement is hard to ignore.
West Virginia’s Non-Conference Schedule
The Mountaineers have a tough non-conference run ahead. Here’s a look at the key games:
- Home Games: Niagara, Mercyhurst, Virginia Tech, Coppin State
- Road Game: Pittsburgh at PPG Paints Arena
- Neutral Site Game: Wake Forest in Greensboro
Each matchup brings something different. It’s a good test before conference play gets rolling.
The Players Era Eight Tournament
West Virginia will also play in the Players Era Eight tournament. They’ll open against Auburn and then face either UNLV or Kansas.
If they keep winning, they could see Houston, Rutgers, Florida, or maybe Notre Dame. Early-season tournaments like this can really set the tone.
- Houston
- Rutgers
- Florida
- Notre Dame
Kentucky’s Perspective
For Kentucky, this possible game is a big deal. The Wildcats have a reputation for taking on tough competition and putting on a show for their fans.
Adding West Virginia to their schedule would be a bold move. Playing in Nashville could make it a can’t-miss event for both fanbases.
Fan Reactions and Anticipation
Fans are already fired up about the rumors. Both teams have loyal followings who want to see high-stakes games, and Black Friday would be a wild time for a showdown like this.
Social Media Buzz
Social media is lighting up with talk about this potential matchup. People are already debating who’d win, which is half the fun.
Players, coaches, and fans are all chiming in online. If this game gets locked in, expect the hype to keep building right up to tip-off.
Conclusion
The idea of a neutral site game between West Virginia and Kentucky? That’s got college basketball fans buzzing. If it actually happens, you’d have two legendary programs going head-to-head—hard not to get a little hyped about that.
The Mountaineers already have a tough non-conference schedule. Throw in their spot in the Players Era Eight tournament, and West Virginia fans have plenty to look forward to.
For Kentucky, it’s a real chance to see how they stack up against a solid opponent. A Black Friday matchup like that would stick in fans’ memories for a while, I’d bet.
There’s a lot of anticipation in the air, but nothing’s official yet. People are waiting, watching, hoping the deal gets done.
If you’re curious and want more details, check out the full report on the potential West Virginia and Kentucky game.
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