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FOX contract blocks St. John's from CBS Classic
29 Jan
Summary
- St. John's was barred from CBS Classic due to FOX contract.
- FOX's 'footprint clause' restricts games in their states.
- Kansas will replace St. John's in the prestigious event.
St. John's Red Storm's bid to continue participating in the prestigious CBS Sports Classic through 2029 has been blocked by FOX broadcast agreements. The team was previously part of the event, even playing against coach Rick Pitino's former school, Kentucky, in December 2026. However, a "footprint clause" within FOX's major Big East broadcast rights deal, which began this season and extends through 2030-31, has prevented the Red Storm's inclusion.
This clause restricts games from being played in states where FOX properties are located. Sources indicate that FOX was not cooperative in negotiating an exception for St. John's, unlike typical network arrangements. As a result, Kansas has been invited to replace St. John's in the CBS Sports Classic and is now committed to the event until 2029. Kansas is scheduled to face Ohio State, while North Carolina will play Kentucky at Madison Square Garden on December 19.
