Clemson to face SEC opponent in tourney moved to Florida

by Press Release - Wednesday, July 22, 2020, 12:53 PM

CLEMSON, S.C. – Tournament officials for the 13th annual men’s Cancun Challenge have solidified the final field of eight teams and the schedule for the Thanksgiving week event.

This year’s Riviera division features a mix between first-timers Clemson and Mississippi State, while also welcoming back Purdue (2016 Champion) and two-time Cancun Challenge participant Illinois State (2011, 2015).

Clemson is scheduled to take on Mississippi State on Nov. 24, with this year’s tournament being played at Eastern Florida State College in Melbourne, Florida. Details on tickets, hotels and fan packages are still to come. Fans are asked to refrain from booking lodging until team hotel and other amenities are announced.

The Tigers hold a 3-1 series lead against Mississippi State, a 3-2 lead against Purdue and a 1-0 mark against Illinois State.

In addition, officials have announced that Clemson will host Bucknell in a preliminary game in Littlejohn Coliseum on Friday, Nov. 20. The Tigers are 2-0 all-time against Bucknell.

Bucknell, East Tennessee State, Georgia Southern and Rider round out the Mayan Division of the tournament. Georgia Southern returns for the second time after competing in 2013, while Rider (2009, 2015) will be making its third trip to the Cancun Challenge. Bucknell and East Tennessee State are making their first appearances.

All Riviera Division games played in Florida will be televised live on CBS Sports Network. All Mayan Division games will be streamed on FloHoops.

Schedule

Florida Games

Tuesday, Nov. 24

MAYAN DIVISION

Bucknell vs. ETSU @ Noon ET (FloHoops)

Rider vs. Georgia Southern @ 3 p.m. ET (FloHoops)

RIVIERA DIVISION

Illinois State vs. Purdue @ 6 p.m. ET (CBS Sports Network)

Clemson vs. Mississippi State @ 8:30 p.m. ET (CBS Sports Network)

Wednesday, Nov. 25

MAYAN DIVISION