Support Us Button Widget

Charlotte to debut Dick Vitale Invitational men’s college basketball event

The Duke Blue Devils will face the Texas Longhorns on Tuesday, Nov. 4 at Spectrum Center to honor Hall of Fame broadcaster, Dick Vitale.

Dick Vitale smiles for the camera in front of a basketball court ahead of an upcoming game.

Get ready for high-caliber competition on the court.

Photo by CLTtoday

Here’s an announcement that will leave you saying: “It’s awesome, baby!” Charlotte Sports Foundation, the organization behind major Queen City events like the Duke’s Mayo Classic and Ally Tipoff, proudly announced the upcoming Dick Vitale Invitational, a new annual men’s college basketball event honoring Hall of Game broadcaster, Dick Vitale.

Who’s playing?

The Duke Blue Devils will face the Texas Longhorns on Tuesday, Nov. 4 at Spectrum Center. Tip-off time is at 8:45 p.m. Tickets start at $49, plus the game will air on ESPN.

“Bringing Duke and Texas together for a primetime match-up on ESPN shows that Charlotte belongs in the conversation with cities known for hosting elite college basketball,” Miller Yoho, of Charlotte Sports Foundation, told CLTtoday. “It’s a statement that our city doesn’t just show up for these moments, we elevate them.”

Dick Vitale smiles for the camera in fron of a basketball court ahead of an upcoming game.

The inaugural Dick Vitale Invitational tips off this November to honor the sports broadcasting legend.

Photo by Phil Ellsworth via ESPN Images

Honoring a legacy

Calling more than 1,000 games since joining ESPN in 1979, Dick Vitale is considered to be “the voice” of men’s college basketball for the last 30 years.

“Few people have done more for college basketball than Dick Vitale,” explained Yoho. “His voice and energy are part of what make the game special. People who grew up listening to Dick call games are going to feel that nostalgia, and that connection brings more eyes, more excitement, and more love for what’s happening here in Charlotte.”

More from CLTtoday
The concept from a professional skateboarder and Michelin-starred chef brings burgers and fries to Uptown’s The Alley at Latta Arcade.
Including gifts for significant others, retirees, holiday parties, young people, and gifts that ship fast.
Blumenthal Arts has unveiled its new private lounge, ready for guests to upgrade their night at the theater.
The 4.5-acre urban park will feature walking trails, covered picnic space, a playground, sprayground, and dog park.
On the rocks, neat, dirty, frozen, or zero proof — we’re spilling the Long Island iced tea on the best spots to grab a drink after work in Charlotte.
If approved, the transportation tax could generate $19.4 billion for road improvement and public transportation projects across Mecklenburg County.
The exhibitions will be included with general admission at Discovery Place Science in Uptown Charlotte.
Whether you’re looking for a quirky hobby to try, hoping to meet new people, or just looking to let off some steam, axe throwing may be a good way to do just that.
Show some love to your fave businesses in Charlotte.
Concertgoers and Hornets fans alike will see new seats, new grab-and-go shops, and two new “districts,” that will merge hospitality and game-day action.