North Dakota, Boston College to play Madison Square Garden during 2016-17 season

North Dakota and Boston College will meet in a new marquee event, the College Hockey Showdown, on Dec. 3, 2016 at Madison Square Garden in New York City.

“The NCHC is honored and excited to partner with Madison Square Garden, the University of North Dakota and Boston College to host the College Hockey Showdown at MSG in 2016,” NCHC commissioner Josh Fenton said in a statement. “This event provides a great opportunity to showcase two of the greatest programs in college hockey history along with the NCHC brand in the ‘World’s Most Famous Arena.’ We look forward to witnessing a great event experience for the participating student-athletes and attending fans.”

The Eagles and UND have squared off 23 times previously with the series deadlocked at 11-11-1. The teams met in back-to-back NCAA championship games in 2000 and 2001 with North Dakota winning the first meeting and Boston College capturing the rematch in overtime.

“College hockey’s return to Madison Square Garden in 2007 has led to wildly successful and exciting matches,” added MSG Sports executive vice president Joel Fisher. “We are proud that the University of North Dakota and Boston College, two of college hockey’s marquee programs, will continue this great new college hockey tradition at The Garden in 2016.”

The NCHC will serve as a co-host for the College Hockey Showdown with Madison Square Garden. North Dakota will be the home team in the game.