POUGHKEEPSIE, New York – The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame announced Wednesday morning that the inaugural Basketball Hall of Fame London Showcase, originally scheduled for Dec. 6, 2020, has been postponed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
 
The Marist men's basketball team was scheduled to face UMBC in the first half of a doubleheader at the event, with the second game featuring Kentucky and Michigan.
 
"As we navigate these unprecedented times, the Basketball Hall of Fame has remained vigilant in placing health and safety above all else," said John L. Doleva, President and CEO of the Basketball Hall of Fame, in a statement released by the organization. "Unfortunately, the unknown combination of health, safety, international travel regulations and the economic viability for all parties involved has required us to postpone this highly anticipated event at The O2. We look forward to hosting a fantastic event in 2022."
 
The event is now scheduled for Dec. 4, 2022 at O2 Arena.
 
"We're disappointed that the London Showcase has been postponed, but we certainly understand because of the factors associated with the COVID-19 pandemic," Marist Director of Athletics Tim Murray said. "We look forward to being part of the tournament in 2022 and working with the Basketball Hall of Fame."
 
Fans who purchased tickets to the 2020 Hall of Fame London Showcase will receive a full refund automatically to the method used for purchase within 14 business days. During these unprecedented times it may take longer for funds to credit your account. Tickets for the 2022 Hall of Fame London Showcase will go back on-sale for Dec. 4, 2022 in January or February of 2022.
 
The Marist men's basketball program is heading into its third season of leadership under head coach John Dunne in the 2020-21 season. On April 30, the program announced four additions for the upcoming season: Hakim Byrd, Javon Cooley, Raheim Sullivan, and Ricardo Wright.