That much was learned Wednesday, when ESPN announced that the annual Champions Classic featuring powerhouse programs Duke, Kansas, Kentucky and Michigan State would be moved up a week and would be the official kickoff of the college hoops season.

“We feel that there is natural connection to the start of the season and to the State Farm Champions Classic,” said Clint Overby, vice president of ESPN Events. “These four schools have come together to help build an exciting stage to launch the college basketball season.”

Next season’s event will take place Nov. 6 in Indianapolis and will pit Kansas against Michigan State and Duke against Kentucky.

The Jayhawks, who knocked off Kentucky in Chicago in the event earlier this season, are 3-4 all-time in the Champions Classic and will enter the 2018-19 season riding a two-game winning streak in the early-season showcase, which, in 2016, was renewed through at least the 2019-20 season.

The 2017 matchups, which followed KU’s 2016 victory over Duke in New York City, delivered the event’s second-highest viewership of all-time, just behind the 2013 Classic.

In Wednesday’s news release, all four Hall of Fame coaches offered their thoughts on the successful venture that has attracted millions of viewers and spectators in its first seven seasons.

Bill Self, Kansas

“The Champions Classic obviously generates a lot of interest and with the season moving up, this will be a great way to officially tip it off. It’ll be tougher for the four teams because we won’t know our own teams nearly as well as we would even a week later, but I think it’s great for our sport.”

John Calipari, Kentucky

“The Champions Classic has been the gold standard for college basketball’s regular-season events for the last seven years, but I love what we’re doing to use it to tip off the basketball season. What better thing for our sport than to begin the year with four of the most successful programs in college basketball. Now, it might not be the best thing for my team, but the good news is we’ll all be learning about our teams at the same time while taking this thing to the next level. I know our fans will turn Indianapolis blue next fall.”

Tom Izzo, Michigan State

“The Champions Classic has always served as the unofficial start to the college basketball season, so it only makes sense to move to the earlier date. Our four great programs, the capacity crowds and the media attention provide a spotlight on our game that’s much needed during an otherwise crowded time in the sports calendar. I can’t think of a better way to tip off the season.”

Mike Krzyzewski, Duke

“It’s incredibly exciting that they’re going to start the basketball season on such a high note and on a different date. I think it’s such a great idea, and to have the Champions Classic on that date is an honor. It’s an honor for the four programs that will be participating. I’m anxious to do something for the first time, and I think it’s a positive step in the right direction for our sport.”