UNC Invited to Play in Prestigious “PK80” College Basketball Tournament

Over the last few decades, not many people have had more influence over college athletics than Nike chairman Phil Knight.

That relationship will be recognized in November of 2017, with the Phil Knight Invitational in Portland, Oregon–a prestigious preseason college basketball tournament known as “PK80.”

UNC was among the 16 teams selected to play in PK80, which will be among the largest–and toughest–regular season tournament fields in history.

“What a thrill for North Carolina Basketball to be playing in such a special event to honor a truly special man,” head coach Roy Williams said, in a statement released by the university.“PK80 not only brings together some of the top basketball programs in the game, it honors a giant in business and sports.

Phil Knight is celebrating his 80th birthday in a big way. (Christian Peterson/ Getty Images)

“Mr. Knight has a wonderful ability to touch people’s lives and do great things, both in and out of the sports world,” Williams continued. “I’ll always cherish my friendship with him.”

The entire field consists of schools that wear Nike gear–with 13 of the 16 having made at least one Final Four appearance.

Nine of the last 13 national champions are also in the mix.

Participating schools include: Arkansas, Butler, Connecticut, Duke, Florida, Georgetown, Gonzaga, Michigan State, North Carolina, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Oregon, Portland, Portland State, Stanford and Texas.

“On behalf of the 16 schools participating in PK80, we are honored to be highlighting Mr. Knight’s contributions to college basketball,” said Clint Overby, vice president of ESPN Events. “The strength of the field coupled with the two venues in Portland set the stage for what should be an exciting weekend.”

Chris Oxley, senior vice president of venue operations of Rose Quarter said, “PK80 will be an incredible showcase of basketball for fans in our arenas and watching on ESPN.

“Two eight-team events – consisting of three games per team – will run simultaneously in the two buildings with the crowning of two bracket champions,” he added. “All games from Portland will be televised on ESPN networks.”

No bracket information has been announced yet for the event, but games will take place on Thursday, Nov. 23, Friday, Nov. 24 and Saturday, Nov. 26.

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