The Diamond Cup: Revolutionizing College Basketball's Regular Season
A major regular-season college basketball event called the "Diamond Cup" is in the works for the 2027-28 season. The event, organized by former St. John's athletic director Mike Cragg, former Nike executive Eric Lautenbach, and former Draft Kings executive Ezra Kucharz, aims to feature eight prestigious college basketball programs. These schools, including Arizona, Connecticut, Gonzaga, Kansas, Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan, and North Carolina, are in discussions to participate in the event, which promises equity for the schools and potential earning opportunities. The Diamond Cup is designed to enhance the appeal of college basketball's opening month and create high-profile matchups before March Madness.
The format and details of the Diamond Cup have evolved since its inception in 2025. Initially proposed as a four-game series for each team over three years, the event now plans for a two-game agreement in the first season, with potential expansion to a four-game format in subsequent years. The schools involved are expected to receive significant revenue guarantees, with a focus on player revenue share and Name, Image, and Likeness opportunities. The Diamond Cup aims to reshape the non-conference calendar and elevate the significance of the regular season in college basketball.
Neutral-site locations are crucial for the Diamond Cup's success, as on-campus venues are restricted due to conference broadcast rights. By playing games at neutral sites, the event can secure flexible broadcast opportunities and attract media partners. The organizers envision a national college basketball event featuring iconic programs in three cities, with a focus on creating a high-stakes competition that will captivate fans across the country. The Diamond Cup founders are also exploring the possibility of expanding the concept to other sports in the future.
The genesis of the Diamond Cup was influenced by Duke's involvement in the planning stages before opting out due to a separate deal with Amazon Prime Video. The event's potential clash with other tournaments, such as the Players Era Tournament, poses challenges for scheduling and participation. However, the Diamond Cup's lineup of prominent schools and its unique format could position it as a significant addition to college basketball's calendar. The next steps involve finalizing contracts with the schools and making an official announcement in July, setting the stage for an exciting start to the 2027 college basketball season.