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NEW YORK, Nov. 28, 2011 ?/PRNewswire/ — The Big Apple Classic, the only Black college basketball tournament at the world famous Madison Square Garden, returns to New York City for the sixth year on Sunday, December 4, 2011.? The classic rivalry between CIAA schools Virginia State University and Virginia Union University will take place at 3 p.m. and the battle of the HUs — MEAC schools Hampton University and Howard University, will take place at 6 p.m. at The Garden. Other festivities include a drumline competition, step show exhibition, a college fair featuring more than 20 HBCUs and the hottest half time shows.? The Classic will begin with a kickoff party on Saturday, December 3, 2011.

Over 10,000 alumni, students, celebrity guests and fans are expected to attend what has become one of the most highly anticipated family and social events of the year.? BAC tickets are $29.50 and $54.50, with discounts for the military and groups of 20 or more. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to support the philanthropic efforts of Educational Learning Opportunities, a non-profit organization specifically designed to provide student mentoring, educational workshops, personal and professional development, as well as career planning.

For tickets or more info about the BAC weekend, visit www.thebigappleclassic.com, facebook.com/thebigappleclassic, www.ticketmaster.com or visit the Madison Square Garden box office.????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????

About the Big Apple Classic

Produced by Johnson, Inc., a Richmond, VA-based marketing firm, the Big Apple Classic has one primary goal: to increase the awareness of Historical Black Colleges and Universities in the Northeast region. The Big Apple Classic's commitment to the community doesn't stop with promoting higher education. Each year, the BAC partners with a non-profit organization to donate a portion of ticket proceeds to a charitable cause that impacts the African American community. In 2008 and 2009, the American Cancer Society was the philanthropic partner, receiving funds toward its efforts to advance awareness of cancer screening and treatment among African Americans.? In 2010, the BAC teamed up with Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. to support the organization's national philanthropic efforts.

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SOURCE The Big Apple Classic