Crosstown Shootout Moves Back To Campus

Dec 19, 2012; Cincinnati, OH, USA; A general view of the court at the game between the Cincinnati Bearcats and the Xavier Musketeers in the Crosstown Classic at U.S. Bank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Frank Victores-USA TODAY Sports

The University of Cincinnati and Xavier University jointly announced today that the Crosstown Shootout would return to an on campus game starting this upcoming season. The game has been held at US Bank Arena the last two season renamed the Crosstown Classic.

Following the 2011 bench clearing brawl the game was moved off campus to cool tensions between the two universities, although that hasn’t seemed to work from a fan standpoint. After a 2 year cooling off period it was decided to move the game back to a home and home format.

Xavier University Athletic Director said why the game was moved back “It’s about passion, energy and having the students at the game. It’s so important, and it’s the right thing for this series going forward.” Meaning the turnout at US Bank wasn’t want either school wanted, not to mention Xavier’s lack of student attendance to the game.

Cincinnati AD Mike Bohn said this was best for the players, fans, ticket buyers, sponsors and television. He failed to mention the students, perhaps the most excited group to have the game back on campus.

Bearcats head coach Mick Cronin has said in the past that he would never play in the Cintas Center again. Mike Bohn addressed that comment and said Cronin was on board with the new plan. Whether Cronin is actually on board is yet to be seen.

One thing that is certain is the rowdiness that is the Crosstown Shootout will return to the rivalry. Bearcats fans have clamored for this day for the last two seasons.

The Crosstown Shootout will be reborn on February 15th, 2015 on ESPN as a part of their Rivalry Week.