One of New England's crown jewel basketball events returns this weekend.
The Hoophall Classic, held at Springfield College's Blake Arena, repeatedly gives basketball fans a glimpse at the stars of tomorrow. The schedule began on Thursday with notable local teams, but the action really picks up Friday through Monday, when powerhouse high schools and prep schools from around the country flock to basketball's birthplace.
It's a rare hoops convergence in New England. The reserved baseline seats are typically a who's-who of college basketball coaches and NBA scouts. Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens, for example, attended last year. NBA players are common spectators too; LeBron James came out in 2019-20 to watch his son, Bronny, then a freshman at Sierra Canyon (Calif.). And though there are fewer girls games, some superstars have played in this showcase, including JuJu Watkins two years ago.
Several dozen future NBA, WNBA and college talents will take the floor during the next four days — and New England Basketball Journal will be in attendance Saturday through Monday. This list provides the ten absolute must-see games if you make the trip (see the full schedule and list of notable names here).
