Hotels for CBS Sports Classic

Four college basketball programmes with serious pedigree meet on a neutral court for a one-day doubleheader. Alumni networks travel in numbers for this, filling the arena with clashing colours and old rivalries that predate most of the players on court. Being a December fixture, it sits in the thick of the non-conference schedule, so both games carry real seeding weight rather than just bragging rights. Expect a loud, partisan crowd split roughly down the middle for each tip-off.

The world's most famous arena, Madison Square Garden sits atop Penn Station in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, home to the Knicks and Rangers and a legendary stage for the biggest concerts. Times Square, Broadway and countless restaurants are all within a short walk, making it one of the most central venues anywhere.

Penn Station's subway and rail lines are directly below. Booking a room in Midtown lets you walk to the show through the city's buzz and back to your bed within minutes.