The Jacksonville Sports Foundation (JSF), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to positioning Jacksonville as Florida’s Championship City, recently announced a series of high-profile sports developments at a press conference at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena in the downtown sports and entertainment district.
For the first time, Jacksonville will host the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) Boys & Girls State Basketball Championships, relocating the event after more than 30 years. The three-year agreement secures the tournament at the University of North Florida on CSI Companies Court, with the welcome for players and families at Florida State College of Jacksonville. Rural Classification championships will be Feb. 24-27, 2026. Championships for Classifications 1A through 7A will be March 5-14, 2026.
“This is another big win for Jacksonville,” said Mayor Donna Deegan. “These championships will be played in our city for the first time ever, a milestone that will continue elevating our sports reputation and have a tremendous economic impact on our community. I'm grateful for all our partners that work together to bring exciting sports events like this one to Jacksonville.”
“Every year, Florida’s top high school basketball players begin their season with the same goal: to earn the right to represent their community at the state championships. From today onward, every victory will take those teams one step closer to Jacksonville,” said Craig Damon, executive director of the FHSAA. “We’re excited to partner with JSF to deliver a winning experience for our athletes, their families and basketball fans from across the state.”
Additional highlights of the press event included:
The press conference highlighted the collaboration between Visit Jacksonville, the City of Jacksonville and the Duval County Tourist Development Council (TDC) working together with JSF to leverage sports as a driver of economic development and civic pride.
“Bringing the FHSAA Basketball Championships to Jacksonville is another great example of how this city is ready to compete in sports tourism,” said Michael Corrigan, board president of the Jacksonville Sports Foundation and president and CEO of Visit Jacksonville. “With the City of Jacksonville, TDC, Visit Jacksonville and community leaders working together, the Jacksonville Sports Foundation is building momentum that benefits residents, visitors and our economy.”
“This is a proud day for Jacksonville,” said Samantha Vance, JSF’s executive director. “Securing Basketball Championships isn’t just about the games — it’s about showcasing our city, uniting our community and creating opportunities for the next generation of athletes and fans. We’re building a lasting legacy here, and I’m grateful to everyone who has leaned in to make this possible.”
Since its formation in 2024, JSF has generated momentum by attracting several high-profile sporting events, securing the relocation of the Atlantic Sun (ASUN) Conference headquarters to Jacksonville and building a strong base of partners and sponsors including ASM Global, local Fortune 500 companies, leading corporations, sports franchises and higher education institutions.
