Rick Pitino will face his former captain next year in a blockbuster non-conference showdown in Atlanta.

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St. John’s has signed on to face Kentucky and coach Mark Pope in the CBS Sports Classic on Dec. 20, according to a source. 

The annual showcase has traditionally featured Kentucky, UCLA, Ohio State and North Carolina, but since UCLA and Ohio State are now conference foes, UCLA pulled out.

St. John’s would like to be a part of the event moving forward, but further details have to be worked out.

Rick Pitino will face his former captain next year in a blockbuster non-conference showdown in Atlanta.{ai:summary}St. John's will face Kentucky in the CBS Sports Classic on December 20, marking a notable matchup for coach Rick Pitino against his former captain, Mark Pope. The event has seen changes in its lineup, with UCLA withdrawing due to conference realignment. St. John's aims to continue participating in the annual showcase, pending further arrangements. #sports

St. John’s signs on for blockbuster Kentucky game as Rick Pitino faces former captain Mark Pope

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