The St. Thomas-St. John’s rivalry effectively ceased to exist when the Tommies made the jump to Division-I athletics after being dumped from the MIAC.

But some traditions die hard.

The rivalry will be renewed on the hardwood in December, with the men’s basketball teams squaring off Dec. 11 at the new Lee & Penny Anderson Arena in St. Paul.

While the nonconference bout could take on risk for St. Thomas — there isn’t much perceived benefit to playing a Division-III opponent in the middle of December — Tommies coach John Tauer said it is “a game that we felt would be attractive to both fan and alumni bases, as well as the entire basketball community in the state of Minnesota.”

Tauer also cited his respect for St. John’s coach Pat McKenzie and the Johnnies program. St. John’s won the MIAC title again last season.

“It is common for Division I men’s basketball programs to play select Division III programs,” St. Thomas athletic director Phil Esten said, “and the Johnnies are a fitting opponent, as we continue to honor our past while welcoming a new era of Tommie Athletics.”

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