San Diego, December 20, 2025
The 35th Annual Holiday Classic basketball tournament will take place in San Diego, featuring 80 teams from various high schools across the nation. The event includes a Tip-Off Night on December 23, showcasing ranked local teams. Notable participants include DeMatha Catholic High School and several local talents. Tickets for the Tip-Off Night are available online, with various pricing options for attendees. This tournament highlights the competitive spirit and community support for high school basketball.
San Diego Hosts 35th Annual Holiday Classic Basketball Tournament
San Diego, California – The 35th Annual Holiday Classic basketball tournament is set to take place from December 26 to December 30, 2025, at various high schools across San Diego, including Torrey Pines, St. Augustine, Carlsbad, Rancho Buena Vista, and El Camino. This prestigious event will feature 80 teams competing in five brackets, showcasing top high school basketball talent from across the nation.
Tip-Off Night on December 23
Before the main tournament begins, a Tip-Off Night will be held on December 23 at Torrey Pines High School. The schedule for the evening is as follows:
- 3:30 p.m.: Carlsbad vs. Olympian
- 5:00 p.m.: Mission Bay vs. Victory Christian
- 6:30 p.m.: Santa Fe Christian vs. Cathedral Catholic
- 8:00 p.m.: Torrey Pines vs. Francis Parker
All eight participating teams are ranked in the San Diego Union-Tribune’s top 10 preseason rankings, with Torrey Pines solidly in second place. This event offers fans an early glimpse of the high-level competition to come in the main tournament.
Notable Teams and Players
The Holiday Classic will feature several standout teams and players:
- DeMatha Catholic High School from Hyattsville, Maryland, is the No. 1 draw in the tournament’s 35th year. Their participation adds national recognition to the event.
- Torrey Pines High School is led by senior Tevaris Green, who averaged 15 points, five rebounds, and two assists per game last year. The team also features junior newcomers Jaylan Virgil, an all-state guard from Northern California, and 6’6″ wing Tyler Humphrey.
- Santa Fe Christian boasts Dax Hall, the 2024 Coastal League Player of the Year, who averaged 20.7 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game last year.
- Francis Parker includes California’s sixth-ranked guard Tavid Johnson and scorer Ezekiel Walker, who is returning after a strong summer of play.
Ticket Information
Tickets for the Tip-Off Night are available online and are priced as follows:
- $23: General Admission
- $15: Children aged 6-18
- Free: Children under 6 years old
One ticket purchase grants access to all four games on Tip-Off Night. For the main tournament, tickets can be purchased through the respective high schools hosting the games. Fans are encouraged to buy tickets in advance to avoid long lines and ensure entry to the games.
Background
The Holiday Classic has a rich history of showcasing future stars in high school basketball. Over the years, it has grown to feature teams from across the country, including nationally ranked programs. The tournament provides a platform for young athletes to display their skills on a prominent stage, often leading to collegiate and professional opportunities.
The Holiday Classic not only highlights local talent but also fosters a competitive spirit that cultivates the next generation of athletes. Community support for such events underscores the importance of local businesses and entrepreneurs who contribute to making such tournaments a reality, contributing to the San Diego County economy through increased tourism and local engagement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is the 35th Annual Holiday Classic basketball tournament taking place?
The tournament is scheduled from December 26 to December 30, 2025, at various high schools across San Diego, including Torrey Pines, St. Augustine, Carlsbad, Rancho Buena Vista, and El Camino.
What is the Tip-Off Night event?
The Tip-Off Night is a pre-tournament event held on December 23 at Torrey Pines High School, featuring four games between local teams. It serves as an early preview of the high-level competition to come in the main tournament.
How can I purchase tickets for the Tip-Off Night?
Tickets for the Tip-Off Night are available online and are priced at $23 for general admission, $15 for children aged 6-18, and free for children under 6 years old. One ticket grants access to all four games on Tip-Off Night.
Which teams are participating in the 35th Annual Holiday Classic?
The tournament features 80 teams, including DeMatha Catholic High School from Maryland, Torrey Pines High School, Santa Fe Christian, and Francis Parker, among others. All eight teams in the Tip-Off Night are ranked in the San Diego Union-Tribune’s top 10 preseason rankings.
How can I get more information about the tournament schedule and participating teams?
For more information on the tournament schedule, participating teams, and ticket purchases, please visit the official Holiday Classic website or contact the hosting high schools directly.
Key Features of the 35th Annual Holiday Classic Basketball Tournament
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Dates | December 26–30, 2025 |
| Location | Various high schools across San Diego, including Torrey Pines, St. Augustine, Carlsbad, Rancho Buena Vista, and El Camino |
| Number of Teams | 80 teams competing in five brackets |
| Tip-Off Night | December 23, 2025, at Torrey Pines High School, featuring four games between local teams |
| Ticket Prices for Tip-Off Night | $23 for general admission, $15 for children aged 6-18, free for children under 6 years old |
| Notable Teams | DeMatha Catholic High School, Torrey Pines High School, Santa Fe Christian, Francis Parker, among others |
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