TAMPA – Tampa Bay will be the epicenter of college basketball as Florida State University and Texas A&M University face off in The Battle in the Bay.
The marquee non-conference matchup, organized by Russ Potts Productions Inc., will take place at Tampa’s Benchmark International Arena at 7 p.m. Nov. 28.
The Florida State Seminoles, representing the ACC, will go head-to-head with the SEC’s Texas A&M Aggies in a showdown that’s sure to be a must-see for fans of both schools and college hoops.
Zach Franz, president of Russ Potts Productions, said his team is grateful to work with partners like Benchmark International Arena, the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, Vinik Sports Group and both universities to deliver an exciting day of basketball.
“Our community is excited to welcome back the upcoming edition of NCAA Men’s March Madness and this event will help our community partners prepare so that we’re ready to put our best foot forward in March,” said Rob Higgins, executive director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission.
The matchup features two head coaches leading their programs in their first season: Luke Loucks of Florida State and Bucky McMillan of Texas A&M. Here is what each coach had to say about the game:
Luke Loucks, Florida State Seminoles coach
We’re working tirelessly to build a championship-caliber program for our great Florida State fans. Every game we play against a quality opponent helps us grow and become a better basketball team.
Playing Texas A&M is great for us in so many ways. They were ranked in the Top 15 nationally, a No. 4 seed in last year’s NCAA Tournament and finished fifth in the SEC, making this matchup a powerful test for us.
Playing in Tampa also gives us the chance to showcase our team in one of Florida’s largest cities, home to a vibrant community of Seminole supporters.
This game strengthens our program and provides our players with valuable experience as we prepare for the rest of our non-conference slate and the upcoming ACC schedule.
Bucky McMillan, Texas A&M Aggies coach
“We’re looking forward to participating in the Battle in the Bay in Tampa this November versus a strong basketball program in Florida State University.
I have great respect for their athletic accomplishments and am excited to be starting this series.
I think this year and next year’s games will be something that both fan bases can rally around. I just hope our fans leave happier than theirs.”
