UNC-Duke game to tip at 9 p.m. Feb. 20
Posted February 12, 2014 10:44 a.m. EST
Updated February 13, 2014 8:28 p.m. EST
The basketball game between North Carolina and Duke postponed Wednesday by bad weather has been rescheduled for Thursday, Feb. 20, at 9 p.m. The game will air locally on WRAL-TV.
“Duke’s bus is not able to get to their campus to pick up the team in time to be able to make the trip to Chapel Hill so we can’t play this evening,” said UNC Director of Athletics Bubba Cunningham. “The safety of the teams and officials is the number one priority and this was the best decision to make at this time. Coach Williams, Coach Krzyzewski, (Duke AD) Kevin White and I will be on the phone with the ACC and make a decision as to when to play the game as soon as possible.”
Classes at UNC were cancelled and offices closed Wednesday afternoon effective through 11 a.m. Thursday due to the winter weather.
“This is always one of the most anticipated games of the season, but everyone’s safety is our top priority and we want people to use discretion and follow Governor McCrory’s advice to stay off the roads,” said Cunningham.
According to ACC policy, games are urged to be played so long as the two teams and officials can make it to the arena. Spokesman Matt Bowers said Wednesday afternoon that the officials had already made it to Raleigh and were expected to arrive at the Smith Center well before game time.
Game time was expected to coincide with the peak of the winter storm Wednesday night in the Triangle, according to WRAL Chief Meteorologist Greg Fishel.
"I can't responsibly advise fans to be on the road at 9 p.m. tonight," Fishel said.
North Carolina Gov. Pat McCrory said he had tickets to the game but wasn't planning to test the roads even if the game was played. In a press conference Wednesday morning, McCrory told residents, "Stay smart. Don't put your stupid hat on."
