2K Classic: Ray Floriani's Photo Essay

NEW YORK -- There was a time when everyone started practice October 15. Games began following Thanksgiving. The early games were largely matchups or to benefit the stronger team(s). Times have definitely changed.

Now, teams begin practice earlier, and get a few scrimmages and exhibitions in before an opening just prior to mid-November. And not all games see sacrificial play-for-pay lambs take to the road. You have tournaments like the just finished 2K Classic, held at the basketball Mecca of Madison Square Garden, annually a challenging and competitive one.

This year’s edition was no exception. The record will show Providence emerging the champion. The Friars of the Big East dismantled an up-and-coming Saint Louis squad, 90-63, in the championship. One team emerges unblemished, two leave at.500, a last comes up empty in two encounters. That is a harsh, number-related truth but beyond that for all four programs, there was something to take home.

Providence not only took home the title, but found out a lot about its overall depth, a big factor as the year progresses. Saint Louis scored a semifinal upset, then their relatively young team was reminded about the demands of competing on this level. Virginia Tech, following the loss to Saint Louis, found the resiliency to bounce back a day later. Washington, after playing Providence tough, was also dealt a cruel reminder of the need to be ready.

The turkey is yet to be carved and the teams here, and in other locales, are finding out so much about themselves. For the fans, this time of year brings a treat of high-level, March-like competition. Thankfully, those bygone days, in this competitive case at least, are a distant memory.

A reminder from the nearby concession stand that it is a game night at the Garden:

A panoramic view of the World's Most Famous Arena:

Virginia Tech huddles during a timeout:

Washington taking the floor prior to their semifinal contest against Providence:

The mythical Billiken, flanked by Ray and Saint Louis' cheerleaders, in a photo op confirming its legend and existence:

Washington head coach Mike Hopkins, a former Jim Boeheim assistant, looks on as his Huskies battle Providence:

Saint Louis at the free throw line against Providence:

The band from Lyndhurst High School, filling in for Saint Louis' regular pep band:

Saint Louis head coach Travis Ford, in a dialogue with official Brian Dorsey:

Providence's spirit squads with the 2K Classic championship sign:

Providence point guard Kyron Cartwright and head coach Ed Cooley meet the media: