AUBURN, Ala. — Coach Tony Barbee continues to beef up the men’s basketball schedule, with Friday’s reports that Auburn will take part in the 2013 Puerto Rico Tip-Off Classic next November.
The loaded field, according to online reports, includes Auburn, Charlotte, Florida State, Georgetown, Kansas State, Long Beach State, Michigan and Virginia Commonwealth. Six of those squads (all but Auburn and Charlotte) played in the 2012 NCAA men’s basketball tournament, with the Seminoles, Hoyas, Wildcats and Rams making the third round (final 32 teams standing).
The tournament historically has taken place the weekend preceding Thanksgiving, which would tentatively plan for Nov. 21-14, 2013 to serve as the dates. Auburn football is idle Nov. 23, the week before the Iron Bowl.
North Carolina State, Tennessee and Oklahoma State are among this year’s Puerto Rico squads. Alabama defeated Purdue in the 2011 Puerto Rico Tip-Off championship game.
The Tigers (1-1) play College of Charleston tonight in the consolation draw of the Charleston Classic.