News Summary

The City of Palms Classic, taking place in Fort Myers from December 18-23, 2025, will feature 16 elite high school basketball teams, including Columbus High School. Teams from eleven states will compete, showcasing some of the best young talent in the country, including several top-ranked players. The tournament’s legacy continues as it introduces new formats, promising thrilling matchups and memorable moments for basketball fans.

Excitement Builds as Fort Myers Prepares for the 52nd Annual City of Palms Classic Basketball Tournament

Fort Myers, Florida, is gearing up for an electrifying week as it plays host to the 52nd Annual City of Palms Classic from December 18-23, 2025. This exciting basketball tournament has become a staple in the high school sports calendar, and basketball fans are counting down the days until the action kicks off at the Suncoast Credit Union Arena.

All-Star Lineup Ready to Shine

This year promises to be extra special as the tournament will showcase 16 elite teams, many of which were nationally ranked in the previous season. While the reigning champions, Columbus High School from Miami, will return, they will face unique challenges after losing the highly talented Boozer twins to Duke University. But don’t count them out just yet; they’ll be eager to prove themselves against a fierce lineup of competitors.

From Coast to Coast

The tournament isn’t just a local affair. Teams from an impressive eleven different states will participate, representing all corners of the country. Florida will be well-represented with teams like Calvary Christian Academy, Sarasota, and The Villages Charter joining Columbus in the fray. Fans from the Northeast can look forward to matches featuring Archbishop Stepinac and Long Island Lutheran from New York, along with Paul VI Catholic from Virginia and Imhotep Charter from Pennsylvania.

Returning powerhouses like Long Island Lutheran, Owasso from Oklahoma, and Bishop McNamara from Maryland will be looking to make a splash as well. Also exciting is the participation of Montverde Academy and Prolific Prep, which will take part in the Signature Series rather than the main tournament bracket.

Familiar Faces and Rising Stars

nine of the top 30 prospects in the 2026 class according to Rivals. Notable players expected to make waves include five-star talents like Jordan Smith Jr. and Dylan Mingo, alongside other promising athletes like Christian Collins, Caleb Gaskins, and Tahj Ariza.

Local Pride

The local contingent includes Sarasota High, which is coached by B.J. Ivey, who has propelled the team to an impressive record of 73 wins and 12 losses in recent years, capped off by a nail-biting state semifinal appearance. With such a strong showing, expectations will be high for this community’s team to impress at the tournament.

A Tournament of Legacy

With a storied past that dates back to its humble beginnings in December 1973, the City of Palms Classic has evolved into a celebrated competition that has featured over 220 McDonald’s All-Americans and produced 143 NBA first-round picks. The 2025 tournament is poised to continue this legacy, showcasing future NBA stars and offering a high level of competition sure to delight fans.

New Formats and Matchups

This year’s tournament will adopt a refreshing format, featuring both a Signature Series and a Sunshine Series alongside the main tournament bracket. This will provide additional opportunities for teams and players to shine and show off their skills to fans and scouts alike.

As the date inches closer, enthusiasm is palpable in Fort Myers. Mark your calendars and get ready to witness some of the best high school basketball in the country. The City of Palms Classic is back, and it’s going to be a week filled with memorable moments, thrilling rivalries, and some amazing talent!

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