City of Palms Classic Set to Bring Nation’s Best High School Hoops to Fort Myers

The 52nd annual City of Palms Classic is set to take place Dec. 18-23 at Suncoast Credit Union Arena in Fort Myers, Florida. Known as one of the nation's premier high school basketball tournaments, the event will feature a 16-team field filled with nationally ranked programs and top prospects.

The teams on this year's list include teams from eleven states, making this a national exhibition event. Last year's champions, Columbus High School out of Florida, will try to defend their championship with their in-state rivals, Calvary Christian Academy —  Sarasota, and The Villages Charter.

Four teams from last year's field — Columbus, Long Island Lutheran, Owasso, and Bishop McNamara — are returning. Montverde Academy and Prolific Prep will participate in the tournament's Signature Series rather than the main bracket.

The tournament will feature nine of Rivals' top 30 prospects in the 2026 cycle, including five-star talents Jordan Smith Jr., Dylan Mingo, Christian Collins, and Caleb Gaskins. Their presence adds to the high-level competition and national attention surrounding the event.

“This tournament is the best,” said Sarasota junior Johnny Lackaff. “It's got the best players, and playing the best competition is going to get you better.”

Bishop Verot senior Bryan Broomhead echoed that excitement. “It's always been a dream of mine to play in it,” he said. “It's my third year, so it's great to compete against the best.”

Barron Collier coach David Watts said simply, “We're privileged to be here. I hope we can show everybody our hard work and what it carries over on the court.”

Sarasota head coach BJ Ivey said the tournament offers invaluable experience. “Nothing is going to get you battle-tested like playing in the City of Palms,” he said. “You're going to play the best of the best, and whatever weaknesses you have are going to get exposed. It's the best opportunity to grow and get better.”