Statement from Gazelle Group Regarding 2K Sports Classic

In light of the NABC's announcement regarding Turner Sports' acquisition of the media rights to the 2012 Coaches vs. Cancer event, I believe several points need to be clarified:

- The 2K Sports Classic, which has been produced by the Gazelle Group since 1995 and has been played at Madison Square Garden since 1998, will remain at Madison Square Garden through at least the 2020-21 season. The 2K Sports Classic annually features several of the best men's college basketball teams in the nation and has produced many memorable games and champions. Gazelle has been responsible for the production of every element of this event since its inception, leading to its proud history and tradition, and will continue to produce this most highly anticipated early-season tournament at Madison Square Garden.

- Last year, the 2K Sports Classic featured Pittsburgh, Texas, Illinois, and Maryland. This year, the Regional Round hosts are St. John's, Arizona, Texas A&M, and Mississippi State.

- The Gazelle Group and ESPN recently entered into a long-term contract for the 2K Sports Classic in which ESPN will distribute a minimum of six games per year.

- Beginning in 2012, Wounded Warrior Project will become the beneficiary.

- The Gazelle Group is proud of its past and current association with the NABC and Coaches vs. Cancer, having worked to raise nearly $5 million through the event. The Gazelle Group wishes the NABC all the best as it begins its new event next season.

From The Madison Square Garden Company

Scott O’Neil, president, MSG Sports

"We're excited that the 2K Sports Classic and the Gazelle Group will continue its long affiliation with Madison Square Garden, and will once again bring an elite college basketball tournament to New York area fans. Beginning in 2012 we would like to welcome the Wounded Warrior Project, who is a partner with Madison Square Garden's Garden of Dreams Foundation. Madison Square Garden has a storied tradition of presenting college basketball and we look forward to another great season."