The Atlanta Hawks Basketball Academy, in partnership with the Atlanta Tipoff Club, administrators of the national Naismith Awards™, hosted the sixth annual Hawks-Naismith Tipoff Classic on Saturday, November 22 at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School. The one-day showcase brought together 12 of Georgia’s top boys’ and girls’ high school teams for a full day of competition, energy, and community pride.
“We were so excited for the return of our annual Hawks-Naismith Tipoff Classic, which is an opportunity to celebrate the passion and love for high school basketball throughout Atlanta,” said Chris Jacobs, Senior Director of the Hawks Basketball Academy. “This event gave young athletes the chance to compete at a high level and share their love for the game.”
The day opened with two thrilling girls’ matchups. Creekside defeated River Ridge 69–63, and Holy Innocents’ earned a strong 72–60 win over North Paulding.
On the boys’ side, Milton edged Cross Creek in a nail-biter 56–55, Gainesville powered past Kell 76–43, Holy Innocents’ held off Woodward 64–63, and McEachern closed out the showcase with an impressive 87–67 victory over Tri-Cities. The packed gym created an electric atmosphere as each game delivered its own standout moments.
“This event was the ultimate way to tip off the high school basketball season in Atlanta, where the area’s top talent was on display and fans were treated to a first-class experience,” said Eric Oberman, President of the Atlanta Tipoff Club. “Each year, the Hawks-Naismith Tipoff Classic continues to grow, and we’re proud to showcase the next generation of athletes on such a premier stage.”
Adding to the excitement, Hawks partner and attorney Ken Nugent hosted a free Jr. Hawks Youth Basketball Clinic for 100 boys and girls, focusing on fundamentals, teamwork, confidence, and sportsmanship. Nugent also continued his annual commitment to donate $1 for every point scored during the event through his Scores for Scholarships program.
Over the past six years, the Hawks and the Atlanta Tipoff Club have showcased more than 3,250 athletes from 235 high school teams across Georgia. Previous events have been held at Norcross High School, Pace Academy, and Maynard Jackson High School.
Next month, the Hawks and the Atlanta Tipoff Club will reveal the lineup for the Hawks-Naismith Holiday Classic, set for Saturday, December 13 at Norcross High School.
