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College Hoops Mega-Event Expands in Vegas
21 Nov
Summary
- Player's Era Festival expands to 18 teams, largest event outside March Madness.
- Syracuse faces ranked opponents in Vegas tournament opening.
- Tournament features pool play, not traditional brackets, for third game.
The Player's Era Festival, originating from EverWonder studio and sports entrepreneur Seth Berger, is significantly expanding its presence in college basketball this November. With 18 invited teams, many ranked or from last year's NCAA Tournament, the event utilizes two large Las Vegas arenas, MGM and Mandalay Bay, making it the largest college basketball tournament outside of March Madness.
Syracuse's schedule presents a challenging start, facing No. 2 Houston and No. 24 Kansas within 24 hours. Unlike traditional tournaments, the Player's Era employs a pool play format, similar to international soccer leagues, meaning third games may involve crossover matchups and tiebreakers like point differential will determine final standings.
The tournament's growth is evident, with plans to expand to 32 teams next year. This November's event in Las Vegas positions Syracuse to potentially play four consecutive games against ranked opponents, a feat not seen since the 2008-09 season, highlighting the high caliber of competition.
