Fort Myers, Florida, December 18, 2025
The City of Palms Classic is a premier high school basketball tournament taking place at the Suncoast Credit Union Arena in Fort Myers, Florida. Featuring 26 teams, including 10 nationally ranked programs, the tournament runs for six days. This event not only spotlights elite high school talent but also provides opportunities for young athletes to shine on a significant stage. Key teams such as Wheeler High School and Paul VI Catholic High School will compete fiercely for the championship title, creating an exciting atmosphere for fans and participants alike.
2025 City of Palms Classic: A Showcase of High School Talent
Top Teams and Up-and-Coming Stars Compete in Fort Myers
Fort Myers, Florida – The 2025 City of Palms Classic, one of the premier high school basketball tournaments in the nation, is set to kick off today at the Suncoast Credit Union Arena. Running from December 18 to December 23, this six-day event features 26 teams, including 10 nationally ranked programs, diving into fierce competition to claim the prestigious title.
The City of Palms Classic has long been a prolific platform for showcasing elite high school basketball talent, helping to elevate the profile of young athletes while creating lasting connections within the sports community. This year’s tournament promises excitement, skill, and opportunity for both teams and individual players looking to make their mark.
Classic Bracket Highlights
Key teams in the Classic Bracket include:
- Wheeler High School (Marietta, GA) – Ranked No. 1 nationally
- Paul VI Catholic High School (Chantilly, VA) – Ranked No. 2 nationally
- Petersburg High School (Petersburg, VA) – Ranked No. 3 nationally
- Columbus High School (Miami, FL) – Ranked No. 4 nationally
- Bishop McNamara High School (Forestville, MD) – Ranked No. 7 nationally
- St. John Bosco High School (Bellflower, CA) – Ranked No. 8 nationally
- Calvary Christian Academy (Fort Lauderdale, FL) – Ranked No. 10 nationally
- Bartlett High School (Bartlett, TN) – Ranked No. 14 nationally
- Long Island Lutheran (Brookville, NY) – Ranked No. 15 nationally
- Owasso High School (Tulsa, OK) – Ranked No. 16 nationally
Each team is eager to showcase their talent and compete for the championship title on December 23. The full schedule and brackets are available on the official City of Palms Classic website.
Sunshine Series and Signature Series
In addition to the Classic Bracket, the tournament includes the Sunshine Series and Signature Series. The Sunshine Series features regional teams such as:
- St. Thomas Aquinas High School (Fort Lauderdale, FL)
- Victory Christian Academy (Lakeland, FL)
- Notre Dame High School (West Haven, CT)
- Olympia High School (Orlando, FL)
Meanwhile, the Signature Series showcases additional talent from teams such as:
- Montverde Academy (Montverde, FL)
- Prolific Prep (Fort Lauderdale, FL)
- CIA-Bella Vista (Phoenix, AZ)
- Gillion Academy (Springfield, VA)
These series provide even more competition and exposure for every participating team.
Player Spotlight
The tournament also highlights emerging talent, especially from Montverde Academy. Noteworthy players to keep an eye on include:
- Lincoln Cosby – 4-star small forward, ranked No. 8 nationally
- Joe Philon – 4-star power forward, ranked No. 50 nationally
- Oneal Delancy – 4-star point guard, ranked No. 46 nationally
- Jayden Hodge – 4-star shooting guard, ranked No. 76 nationally
- Kevin Thomas – 4-star small forward, ranked No. 86 nationally
- Derek Daniels – 4-star power forward, ranked No. 68 nationally
These promising athletes are poised to make significant impacts throughout the tournament and beyond.
Broadcast Information
Fans can catch the action through various broadcast options. Games will be available on NBA Network, the NBA’s official YouTube channel, and League Ready’s YouTube channel. Detailed schedules and broadcast details can be found on the City of Palms Classic website.
Background
The City of Palms Classic has a rich history of featuring elite high school basketball talent. Over the years, it has established itself as a premier event for showcasing future stars and providing teams with top-level competition. The 2025 edition continues to build on this legacy, bringing together some of the best high school basketball programs from across the nation.
Conclusion
As the 2025 City of Palms Classic commences, fans can expect thrilling matchups and outstanding displays of basketball prowess. Community members are encouraged to attend the games in Fort Myers, support these young athletes, and witness emerging talent that could define the future of the sport. Follow HEREPhiladelphia for continued coverage of local high school sports stories.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the City of Palms Classic?
The City of Palms Classic is a premier high school basketball tournament held annually in Fort Myers, Florida, featuring top-ranked teams and players from across the nation.
When does the 2025 City of Palms Classic take place?
The 2025 City of Palms Classic is scheduled from December 18 to December 23, 2025.
Where is the tournament held?
The tournament is held at the Suncoast Credit Union Arena in Fort Myers, Florida.
Which teams are participating in the 2025 Classic Bracket?
The 2025 Classic Bracket features 16 teams, including Wheeler High School, Paul VI Catholic High School, Petersburg High School, Columbus High School, Bishop McNamara High School, St. John Bosco High School, Calvary Christian Academy, Bartlett High School, Long Island Lutheran, Owasso High School, and others.
How can I watch the games?
Games will be broadcast on NBA Network, the NBA’s official YouTube channel, and League Ready’s YouTube channel. The full schedule and broadcast details are available on the City of Palms Classic website.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Tournament Dates | December 18–23, 2025 |
| Location | Suncoast Credit Union Arena, Fort Myers, Florida |
| Number of Teams | 26 |
| Nationally Ranked Teams in Classic Bracket | 10 |
| Signature Series Teams | 4 |
| Sunshine Series Teams | 4 |
| Broadcast Options | NBA Network, NBA’s YouTube channel, League Ready’s YouTube channel |
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