Wednesday, August 15, 2012

ANCHORAGE -- The University of Alaska Anchorage has reached a multi-year agreement with CBS Sports Network to televise the Carrs/Safeway Great Alaska Shootout.

Beginning with the 2012 event, CBS Sports Network will carry seven games from the 35th annual men's basketball tournament, scheduled for Nov. 21-24 at Anchorage's Sullivan Arena.

This year's action will feature three first-round matchups, both semifinals, and the third-place and championship games.

“We are thrilled to partner with CBS Sports Network to bring the Carrs/Safeway Great Alaska Shootout to a national audience,” said UAA athletic director Dr. Steve Cobb. “This should be the beginning of a long and successful venture for both parties.”

CBS Sports Network coverage will premiere with Belmont versus host Alaska Anchorage on Nov. 21 at 10 p.m. AST.

The other first-round contests will air Thanksgiving night, Nov. 22, with Loyola Marymount playing Oral Roberts at 5 p.m. AST and Texas State taking on Charlotte at 7:30 p.m. AST.

Started in 1978, the Shootout is the longest running regular-season tournament in men's college basketball, featuring such past champions as North Carolina, Duke, Kansas and Kentucky, and a list of alumni that includes 10 NBA Draft No. 1 picks.