Vanderbilt Men's Basketball | Dores to Battle Virginia in Outdoor Exhibition at TheLinkU Invitational in Charleston – Vanderbilt Commodores

Vanderbilt vs. Virginia highlights LinkU Invitational set for Sept. 27 at Credit One Stadium
CHARLESTON, S.C. – The LinkU Invitational will bring a first-of-its-kind outdoor college basketball doubleheader to Credit One Stadium on Sunday, Sept. 27, as four distinguished men’s programs compete in a showcase unlike any other.
The LinkU Invitational will feature Vanderbilt vs. Virginia and College of Charleston vs. The Citadel in a day-long celebration of college basketball, community and fan experiences. Tickets for the LinkU Invitational start at $25, with premium courtside seating also available.
The event pairs nationally recognized programs from the ACC and SEC with one of the Lowcountry’s oldest rivalries, transforming Credit One Stadium into a one-day celebration of college basketball.
“We’re so excited to be part of this unique event and really appreciate everyone involved in putting it together. This is an opportunity to create a memorable experience for our student-athletes while bringing together four fantastic programs in an incredible setting,” said Ryan Odom, Head Men’s Basketball Coach, University of Virginia. “Charleston is home to a great basketball community, and we’re looking forward to competing against Vanderbilt in what should be a great atmosphere. We are confident that this weekend will be a special experience for our team and our fans.”
“This is an exciting opportunity for Vanderbilt to be part of a truly unique event that reflects the evolving landscape of college basketball,” said Mark Byington, Head Men’s Basketball Coach, Vanderbilt University. “We are proud to partner with Virginia, Charleston and The Citadel to create an experience that showcases our student-athletes on a national stage while providing meaningful NIL opportunities. Being part of what we believe will be the earliest Division I men’s basketball game ever played makes this event even more special. We appreciate the collaboration and look forward to an unforgettable experience for our team and our fans.”
While the matchups headline the event, the LinkU Invitational is designed as far more than a basketball doubleheader, offering fans an immersive weekend built around the participating programs.
Throughout the weekend, fans will have access to the kind of up-close, behind-the-scenes experiences that a traditional game-day ticket simply does not offer.
On Saturday, fans are invited to open practice sessions with all four programs, a unique opportunity to watch these teams prepare in real time before the stakes are on the line. That afternoon, The Riviera will host an exclusive Chalk Talk with coaches and players, offering a rare look inside the game before it begins.
Fans can follow the action off the court as well. With college football in full swing, watch party programming around Charleston will give supporters a place to gather, watch their teams and carry the energy of the weekend into game day.
On Sunday, before the opening tip, Credit One Stadium transforms into a pregame destination with curated food and beverage, family-friendly entertainment and a gameday atmosphere before Vanderbilt and Virginia tip off at 1 p.m., followed by the College of Charleston and The Citadel at 3 p.m. Together, the weekend’s programming is designed to give fans unprecedented access to players, coaches and teams before the 2026-27 season officially begins.
“College basketball has passionate fan bases, rich traditions and a unique ability to bring communities together,” said Bob Moran, President of Beemok Sports & Entertainment. “From the longstanding rivalry between the College of Charleston and The Citadel to welcoming Virginia and Vanderbilt to Charleston, this event brings together outstanding programs unlike any other. It’s a reflection of our commitment to creating experiences that go beyond the game while showcasing Charleston as a premier destination for sports fans.”
“The LinkU is thrilled to host a special experience at Credit One Stadium in a true one-of-one event,” said Austin Elrod, Founder & CEO of LinkU. “Bringing together two powerhouse programs and two historic Charleston rivals for an unforgettable night in an outdoor tennis venue is something that’s never been done before. We’re excited to create this unique experience for fans while also activating meaningful opportunities for these outstanding student-athletes during their time in Charleston with a weekend full of festivities.”
Additional programming and sponsor activations will be announced in the coming weeks.

source