Schedule Update: Clash in Catlanta; Kentucky Wildcats Set to Battle St. John’s in High-Stakes CBS Sports Classic Showdown on December 20
College basketball fans, circle December 20 on your calendars. The annual CBS Sports Classic is set to deliver one of its most electrifying matchups in recent memory as the Kentucky Wildcats face off against the St. John’s Red Storm in what promises to be a pivotal midseason showdown at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia—fondly dubbed the “Clash in Catlanta.” Both programs, steeped in history and boasting passionate fanbases, will collide on neutral ground with significant implications not only for national rankings but also for postseason narratives as March approaches.
The Kentucky Wildcats, led by head coach John Calipari, enter the season with high expectations and one of the most talented rosters in the country. Known for their blend of dynamic freshmen and seasoned upperclassmen, the Wildcats’ up-tempo offense and stingy defense make them a perennial threat in non-conference showcases like this. After an offseason bolstered by top-tier recruits and key returning players, Kentucky looks poised to reclaim dominance both in the SEC and on the national stage. The December 20 clash provides a crucial opportunity for the Wildcats to solidify their resume with a marquee win on national television.
Meanwhile, St. John’s, under the guidance of head coach Rick Pitino, is experiencing a renaissance of its own. With Pitino bringing his trademark intensity and tactical acumen to the Red Storm, the team has rapidly become one of the most intriguing stories in college basketball. His ability to quickly transform programs is well-documented, and St. John’s has responded with a tenacious defensive identity and an up-tempo offensive attack that mirrors Pitino’s past successes. The Red Storm’s strong early-season performance and key transfer additions have vaulted them into national conversations, and a win over Kentucky would further cement their legitimacy as a Big East powerhouse.
Beyond the tactical chess match between Calipari and Pitino—two of the game’s most recognizable coaching figures—the matchup pits elite guard play, physical frontcourt battles, and strategic depth against one another. Kentucky’s stable of five-star recruits will be tested by St. John’s experienced core and relentless pressure defense. For both programs, the CBS Sports Classic is more than just a showcase; it’s an opportunity to make a statement before conference play intensifies.
The game’s location in Atlanta offers an additional layer of intrigue. With Kentucky’s large southeastern alumni base and the vibrant New York fan contingency that follows St. John’s passionately, the arena is expected to be electric. Dubbed the “Clash in Catlanta,” the contest is poised to draw national attention, blending historic tradition with contemporary relevance in a way few non-conference games can.
Broadcast live on CBS, the December 20 showdown stands as a centerpiece of the college basketball calendar. With rankings, NCAA Tournament seeding implications, and program pride on the line, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Whether it’s Calipari’s star-studded Wildcats or Pitino’s surging Red Storm who walk away victorious, fans can expect an intense, high-quality battle that embodies everything the CBS Sports Classic aims to showcase.
Will you be tuning in for the clash?