Villanova to play Maryland in Jimmy V Classic at Madison Square Garden

Villanova fans might want to take December 9 off from work. And maybe the 10th too.

ESPN announced Wednesday that the Wildcats will play Maryland at Madison Square Garden in this year's Jimmy V Classic. Whether or not the Terps are that great next season, there should at least be a terrific atmosphere.

It's the third time that 'Nova has been selected for the showcase, which will celebrate its 20th edition in 2014. Both of the Wildcats' previous appearances were losses: to Texas in 2008 and Missouri in 2011. They should be favored this time.

Of course, the Jimmy V Classic is a doubleheader. Villanova-Maryland is the first game. Tthe second is no slouch either, to put it politely: Louisville vs. Indiana. In addition to brinigng together two great teams and fan bases, it will poke a huge stick in the eye of Kentucky for not wanting to play the Hoosiers anymore.

Tickets will go on sale in the fall. More details are available here.