PINE BLUFF, Ark. — One of the South’s premier high school basketball showcases is set to tip off after Christmas, as the King Cotton Holiday Classic returns to the Pine Bluff Convention Center on December 27, 29 and 30. The event, presented by Go Forward Pine Bluff, draws top programs from Arkansas and across the country for three days of elite competition.
This year’s Classic features nationally recognized teams from California, Texas, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi and Virginia, alongside several of Arkansas’ strongest boys’ and girls’ squads. The opening day slate on December 27 includes eight games beginning at 10 a.m., offering fans a full day of high-level basketball.
December 27 matchups include:
- 10 a.m. — Barton High School (Barton, AR) vs. Raymond High School (Raymond, MS)
- 11:30 a.m. — Windermere Prep (Orlando, FL) vs. St. Michaels Catholic (Austin, TX)
- 1 p.m. — Bryant High School (Bryant, AR) vs. St. Joseph Santa Maria (Santa Maria, CA)
- 2:30 p.m. — North Little Rock High School (North Little Rock, AR) vs. Zachary High School (Zachary, LA)
- 4 p.m. — Watson Chapel Girls (Pine Bluff, AR) vs. Oak Grove High School Girls (Oak Grove, LA)
- 5:30 p.m. — Benton High School (Benton, AR) vs. Inglewood High School (Inglewood, CA)
- 7:15 p.m. — Pine Bluff High School (Pine Bluff, AR) vs. Faith Family Academy (Dallas, TX)
- 8:45 p.m. — Watson Chapel Boys (Pine Bluff, AR) vs. Gillion Academy (Alexandria, VA)
The tournament has long been known for drawing powerhouse talent, and the 2025 field continues that tradition, offering South Arkansas fans a rare chance to see multiple high-profile programs in one venue. Pine Bluff’s local teams — Watson Chapel and Pine Bluff High School — highlight the evening slate and are expected to draw large home crowds.
The Classic is supported by Simmons Bank, MK Distributors, the Pine Bluff Convention Center, Explore Pine Bluff, First Bank Trust, the City of Pine Bluff, and other sponsors.
Tickets are available now at kingcottonclassic.com.
