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About This Event
This event is for the CBB game between Bellarmine Knights and Eastern Kentucky Colonels on January 17 at 4:00 PM ET.
If the game is postponed, this market will remain open until the game has been completed.
If the game is canceled entirely, with no make-up game, this market will resolve 50-50.
AI-generated analysis based on market data. Not financial advice.
The Bellarmine Knights versus Eastern Kentucky Colonels men's basketball game scheduled for January 17 at 4:00 PM ET is a regular season matchup within the Atlantic Sun Conference (ASUN) of NCAA Division I. This contest features two Kentucky-based programs with distinct institutional identities and recent competitive histories. Bellarmine University, a private Catholic institution in Louisville, transitioned to Division I in 2020 and is completing its four-year reclassification period, making it ineligible for the NCAA Tournament until 2025 despite competing in the ASUN. Eastern Kentucky University, a public university in Richmond, has a longer history in Division I and is eligible for postseason play. The game is significant for conference standings and regional bragging rights within the Commonwealth. Interest stems from the teams' contrasting styles, Bellarmine's unique Princeton-style offense under coach Scott Davenport, and EKU's up-tempo approach under coach A.W. Hamilton. This matchup also carries implications for seeding in the upcoming ASUN Tournament, where only EKU can earn the conference's automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament. For Bellarmine, strong performances against eligible teams like EKU are crucial for building program credibility during its transition. The game will be played at EKU's Baptist Health Arena, with television coverage expected on ESPN+.
Historical Context
The basketball rivalry between Bellarmine and Eastern Kentucky is relatively new, stemming primarily from Bellarmine's entry into the ASUN Conference in 2020. Prior to that, the programs existed in different athletic spheres. Bellarmine built a national powerhouse in NCAA Division II, winning the 2011 national championship under coach Scott Davenport and making multiple Final Four appearances. Eastern Kentucky has a longer Division I history, dating back to 1948, with notable periods of success including NCAA Tournament appearances in 1959, 1979, 2005, 2007, and 2014 under coaches like Paul McBrayer and Travis Ford. The first meeting as Division I opponents occurred on January 8, 2021, with Bellarmine winning 70-58. Since then, the series has been competitive, with EKU holding a slight edge in recent matchups. The geographical proximity of the two schools, separated by approximately 110 miles, adds a natural regional rivalry element that has intensified with conference alignment. Historically, EKU has relied on a tradition of high-scoring, guard-oriented teams, while Bellarmine's identity is rooted in disciplined, system-based basketball developed during its Division II era. This clash of styles defines their modern meetings.
Why It Matters
This game matters significantly for the trajectory of both programs within the ASUN Conference. For Eastern Kentucky, a win is essential for maintaining position in the conference standings and bolstering its resume for potential postseason consideration, whether for the NCAA Tournament or the NIT. For Bellarmine, victories against eligible Division I opponents like EKU are crucial for validating its competitive level during the reclassification period and building momentum for full eligibility in 2025-26. Beyond the court, the game impacts recruiting visibility within the talent-rich state of Kentucky, where both programs compete for prospects against traditional powers like Kentucky and Louisville. Economically, home games generate revenue for the host university through ticket sales, concessions, and sponsorship, with regional rivalry games typically drawing better attendance. For the ASUN, compelling matchups between member institutions enhance the conference's media profile and strengthen its bargaining position for television contracts and NCAA revenue distribution.
Current Status
As of early January 2024, both teams are engaged in ASUN Conference play. Eastern Kentucky entered conference play with a stronger non-conference record, including a notable win over a Power Five opponent. Bellarmine navigated a challenging non-conference schedule designed to prepare it for ASUN competition. The specific records and conference standings for each team will be updated leading into the January 17 matchup. Both teams are expected to be at full strength barring any last-minute injuries. The game is scheduled to be broadcast on ESPN+, the primary digital platform for ASUN basketball. Ticket sales for the game at Baptist Health Arena in Richmond, Kentucky, are ongoing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Bellarmine not eligible for the NCAA Tournament?
Bellarmine is in the final year of a mandatory four-year reclassification period after moving from NCAA Division II to Division I, which began in the 2020-21 season. Per NCAA rules, transitioning programs are ineligible for the NCAA Tournament during this period. They will regain full eligibility, including for the automatic bid, starting with the 2025-26 season.
Where is the Bellarmine vs. Eastern Kentucky game being played?
The game on January 17, 2024, is scheduled to be played at Baptist Health Arena, the home court of the Eastern Kentucky Colonels, located on the EKU campus in Richmond, Kentucky. The arena has a seating capacity of approximately 6,500 for basketball.
How can I watch the Bellarmine vs. EKU basketball game?
The game is scheduled to be televised on ESPN+, the subscription-based streaming service from ESPN. It may also be available via radio broadcast on the respective school's radio networks, such as WXVW 1450 AM for Bellarmine or WCYO 100.7 FM for EKU.
What is the Atlantic Sun Conference (ASUN)?
The ASUN is an NCAA Division I athletic conference with members primarily located in the Southeastern United States. Current full members include Bellarmine, Eastern Kentucky, Austin Peay, Jacksonville, and others. The conference champion receives an automatic bid to the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament.
Who won the last meeting between Bellarmine and Eastern Kentucky?
In the most recent meeting during the 2022-23 season, Eastern Kentucky defeated Bellarmine. The final score and specific date of that game would be part of the updated series history leading into the January 2024 contest.
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Updated Jan 15, 2026
Educational content is AI-generated and sourced from Wikipedia. It should not be considered financial advice.
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