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Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

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Idaho, Boise State will not play in men’s basketball this year

The football rivalry between the University of Idaho and Boise State University has laid dormant since 2010. Now, the men's basketball rivalry, which has been played between the two schools since 1971, could follow the same path. 

It's been confirmed to the Spokesman-Review that Idaho and Boise State will not meet in a non-conference game this season. It was first reported by the Idaho Statesman.

The two schools have played each of the last four seasons in neutral court games in the Treasure Valley since Boise State's departure from the WAC into the Mountain West. Boise State has won each of those games. 

Idaho athletic director Rob Spear confirmed the two schools will not be playing this season. 

"It is unfortunate that Idaho and Boise State are not playing in football or basketball," Spear told the Spokesman-Review.

Idaho was interested in scheduling a game this season, but Boise State wasn't willing to find an open date for it. 

Idaho coach Don Verlin has expressed hope in a home-and-home series, but last year said the game would likely be continued to be played in Boise, if at all. 

"Is that game important? Yeah. I just wish it was played differently," Verlin said on Nov. 24. "I wish they would come up here and play once in a while. That doesn’t seem to be something that’s going to happen in the near future. That game will probably continue to be played in Boise."

He also touched on his relationship with Boise State coach Leon Rice in the same interview. 

"I have a good relationship with (Boise State coach) Leon (Rice)," Verlin said. "I’ve known him a long time. It goes back 20-plus years and Leon is a good guy."

Meanwhile, the Vandals will continue their home-and-home rivalry with Washington State, hosting the Cougars at the Cowan Spectrum on Dec. 10. 



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