The 2026 Shriners Children's Charleston Classic will feature six competitive college basketball teams, including the Minnesota Gophers, competing on November 20 and 22 at TD Arena in Charleston, South Carolina. ESPN Events confirmed Minnesota will join Dayton, Northwestern, Oklahoma State, Utah, and Virginia Tech for this 18th annual tournament. Each team is poised for potential matchups, with games scheduled for each day of the event. The specifics of matchups, times, and broadcast details will be publicized later this summer. This family-oriented classic not only provides a platform for collegiate competition but also promotes experiences across historic Charleston.

By the Numbers
  • Six teams will participate: Minnesota, Dayton, Northwestern, Oklahoma State, Utah, and Virginia Tech.
  • The event will take place across two days, November 20 and 22, featuring three games per day.
State of Play
  • Participating teams are coming off strong seasons: Minnesota and Northwestern both had NCAA Tournament appearances in recent years.
  • Each team will bring notable players with impressive stats, such as Minnesota's Jaylen Crocker-Johnson averaging 13.4 points and 6.8 rebounds last season.
What's Next

As the tournament approaches, anticipation will build for the specific matchups and timings, scheduled to be released later this summer. Fans can sign up for pre-sale ticket access, hinting at strong interest in the event. Families can look forward to unique activities and attractions in Charleston, enhancing the overall experience.

Bottom Line

The Shriners Children's Charleston Classic is set to showcase collegiate basketball at a high level while supporting a noble cause in pediatric healthcare. This event reinforces community bonds and provides entertainment options, making it an essential gathering for sports fans in the area.