What were the biggest takeaways from the 2020 2K Empire Classic results?
One of the few NCAA Basketball multi-team events that were still left standing, the 2K Empire Classic became a must-see tournament to watch in the early part of the season. However, it took a big hit once Baylor had to pull out due to a positive test with head coach Scott Drew.
Still, another top-3 preseason program was left in the Villanova Wildcats, along with another ranked team in Arizona State. ACC program Boston College also was participating, and the Rhode Island Rams joined at the last minute to add a mid-major threat to the field.
In the semifinal games, both were close and exciting. Boston College put Villanova on upset alert, even leading with a few minutes left in the game. However, the Wildcats were able to hold on for a 76-67 win. Rhode Island and Arizona State were evenly matched for most of the night but star guard Fatts Russell fouling out turned the tide in the Sun Devils favor, winning 94-88 in a foul-fest shootout.
The Rams put up another hard-fought effort against Boston College in the consolation game, but ultimately fell, 69-64. That still ended up being a better than than the title matchup, with Villanova controlling nearly the entire game, slowly extending its lead in the second half to prevent Arizona State from making a real comeback. The Wildcats won the 2K Empire Classic, 83-74 in a game that wasn’t as close from view.
Each of these teams has only played two games, so there aren’t many takeaways to take to heart. However, there still are things from each program that was both positive and negative, that could have an impact down the road. Here’s a closer look at each team’s journey in this event.