The University of Missouri and Kansas Athletic Departments recently met to discuss both teams playing an exhibition game to benefit victims of the recent hurricanes.
Yesterday, we heard about the developing story, and at least for the moment, knew that the possibility of the Tigers playing the much-hated Jayhawks could become a reality sooner than we imagined.
Hopefully, the purpose behind this meeting won’t get lost, however. Thousands of people lost their homes; hundreds perished, and all affected have suffered some amount of loss.
The fact that heads from both Missouri and Kansas put aside any differences in an effort to help the thousands in need, speaks volumes in the combined philanthropic effort.
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Of course, this game wouldn’t be the same if it wasn’t appropriately named; while it would be solid to see a revival of the “Border War,” this game gives a nod to its purpose, as a “Showdown for Relief.” We’ll see how the rivalry unfolds on the court, but I’m sure that at the very least, the rivalry will be alive and well among the fans.
According to a release from mutigers.com, both programs will split the approximate 18,000 seat Sprint Center venue, in Kansas City, MO on October 22 at 3:00 PM, CT. Ticket prices will range from $20 (for students), to $200 for courtside seats.
Tigers’ coach Cuonzo Martin was centered on the true goal of this game, but I’m sure he’s also excited to give his young team a chance to get a little film from a game that doesn’t count (I know, it’s a loaded statement), from a win-loss perspective, per se.
"The opportunity to use the platform of college basketball to help so many people in need is the most important aspect of this event. Buy tickets to this game, but also please donate if you are able to, as there are people in Texas, Florida, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands who need our support. This scrimmage will not only be fun for fans of Mizzou and Kansas, but also for people all over the world."
Coach Bill Self, of the Jayhawks, echoed similar sentiments, and also stated he hopes the event raises more than $1 million.
Next: Mizzou prepares for 6-0 Georgia
The rivalry between Missouri and Kansas is steeped in history, which former Mizzou head football coach Gary Pinkel appropriately termed, “blood and guts.” After seeing my favorite NFL team probably get clobbered next Sunday, I will probably be ready for a little “blood and guts,” myself.