The Carrier Classic Is Back, And It's Still Gorgeous

It's the second year for the Carrier Classic, the season tip-off played on the deck of an aircraft carrier. Tonight, the Notre Dame and Ohio State women play first on the USS Yorktown in Charleston Harbor, with the Marquette and OSU men to follow. One day, if they keep doing this, it's going to get old. It's going to lose its novelty, and become more a sideshow than an event.

That day is not today. It still looks awesome. Maybe the extra travel is a hassle for the players, and maybe the playing surface isn't ideal. But this is a made-for-TV event, and basketball outside, under the lights, with a ridiculous backdrop, is tailor-made for those of us watching at home, enjoying the aesthetics. Click the top photo to make it huge.

Oh hell, here's another one: