Heartland Hoops Announces 2027 Matchups

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. – Twenty years ago, the Heartland Hoops Classic was created
with a pretty simple idea: put great teams, great players, and great games together in
one place.

That idea has turned into one of the biggest basketball events in Nebraska.
The 20th Annual Heartland Hoops Classic will be held Saturday, February 13, 2027,
at the Big Iron Events Center in Grand Island, with eight games featuring teams from
across Nebraska and one of the nation's premier prep programs.

Over the past 20 years, the Heartland Hoops Classic has become a February tradition
for basketball fans throughout Nebraska and the surrounding region. The event has
featured state champions, nationally ranked teams, future college & NBA stars and
some of the best players to come through Nebraska high school basketball.
More than 150 varsity games have been played during the first 19 Heartland Hoops
Classics, with hundreds of players getting the opportunity to compete in front of large
crowds in Grand Island.

"Our goal from the beginning was to have the best teams and the best players we could
possibly get," said Event Organizer Tino Martinez. "We've been fortunate over the
years to have schools and coaches believe in the event and bring their teams to Grand
Island. When you look back at some of the players and teams we've had, it's pretty
remarkable."

2027 HEARTLAND HOOPS CLASSIC
The 20th anniversary event will feature eight games throughout the day on Saturday,
February 13, at the Big Iron Events Center.
9:00 a.m.
North Platte St. Patrick's vs. Fullerton
10:40 a.m.
Gothenburg vs. Archbishop Bergan
12:20 p.m.
Ogallala vs. Lincoln Pius X
2:00 p.m.
Adams Central vs. Auburn
3:40 p.m.
Exeter Milligan Friend vs. Grand Island Central Catholic
5:20 p.m.
Wahoo vs. Northwest
7:00 p.m.
Omaha Westside vs. Sunrise Christian Academy
8:40 p.m.
Guardian Angels Central Catholic vs. Grand Island Lutheran

The event schedule will feature games that should draw plenty of attention. Omaha
Westside will meet Sunrise Christian Academy at 7:00 p.m. in the Heartland
Hoops Classic's Marquee Matchup.