The annual Spalding Hoophall Classic, held in Springfield, Massachusetts, is a prestigious event that gathers some of the finest high school basketball teams from across the nation. This five-day tournament takes place over Martin Luther King Jr. Day weekend and features both boys' and girls' teams competing in an electrifying atmosphere. The event begins on Thursday, January 16th, with local matches between schools from Massachusetts and Connecticut. From Friday onward, the competition intensifies as nationally renowned programs travel to participate despite the cold weather. The schedule includes various streaming platforms and television networks for fans to follow the action.
Local Showdowns Kick Off the Event
The opening day of the Hoophall Classic sets the stage with thrilling matchups among nearby schools. On Thursday, January 16th, the games start early in the afternoon and continue into the evening. Teams from Massachusetts and Connecticut will face off in several contests, providing spectators with a taste of what's to come. These initial matches offer an opportunity for local talent to shine before the national spotlight takes over. Fans can catch all the action through BallerTV, which streams every game live.
As the day progresses, more teams enter the court, each bringing their unique style and intensity. Newton North High School from Massachusetts battles Albany High School from California, while other local rivals such as Andover High School and Notre Dame High School also compete. The evening concludes with two highly anticipated games featuring Pope Francis High School versus Holyoke High School and Putnam Vocational High School against Springfield Central High School. These early encounters not only showcase local talent but also set the tone for the rest of the week's events.
National Powerhouses Take Center Stage
Beginning Friday, January 17th, the tournament welcomes top-tier programs from around the country. Teams like IMG Academy from Florida and Montverde Academy from Virginia join the fray, adding star power and excitement to the already vibrant atmosphere. The inclusion of these national powerhouses elevates the competition level significantly, drawing attention from scouts, coaches, and enthusiasts alike. Matches are scheduled throughout the weekend, ensuring non-stop entertainment for basketball aficionados.
Friday kicks off with Ridgefield High School from Connecticut facing Santa Barbara High School from California, followed by girls' teams Christ the King High School from New York and Ontario Christian School from California. The highlight of the day comes later when IMG Academy clashes with Wasatch Academy, and Oak Hill Academy meets Montverde Academy—both televised on NBATV. Saturday and Sunday bring even more intense matchups, including Paul VI High School versus St. John Bosco and Long Island Lutheran against Arizona Compass Prep. The grand finale on Monday features multiple games broadcasted on ESPNU, culminating in a memorable celebration of high school basketball excellence.