Chattanooga Hosts Top High School Basketball Teams at Dr Pepper Classic

The 11th annual tournament features some of the nation's elite prep programs and talent.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Scenic City of Chattanooga, Tennessee is welcoming some of the top high school basketball teams and players in the country this weekend for the 11th annual Dr Pepper Classic. The prestigious tournament has hosted numerous future NBA stars over the years and this year's edition features a star-studded lineup of programs, including nationally ranked Spire Academy, Montverde, La Lumiere, and Oak Hill Academy.

Why it matters

The Dr Pepper Classic has become one of the premier high school basketball showcases in the nation, attracting top talent and programs from across the country to compete in Chattanooga. The event highlights the city's rich basketball tradition and provides an opportunity for local fans to see elite-level prep talent up close.

The details

The tournament features a number of highly ranked teams and players. No. 2 Spire Academy is led by Georgetown commit Alex Costanza and the nation's top-rated point guard King Gibson. No. 14 Montverde is a basketball powerhouse that has produced several recent No. 1 NBA draft picks. No. 17 La Lumiere brings international talent with Purdue commit Rivers Knight and Notre Dame commit Gan Solongo. Even unranked Oak Hill Academy, a nine-time national champion, is considered one of the most legendary programs in high school basketball.

  • The 11th annual Dr Pepper Classic takes place on February 6-7, 2026.
  • The tournament runs from Friday, February 6 through Saturday, February 7.

The players

Alex Costanza

A 6-foot-8 small forward and Georgetown commit who is a key player for No. 2 Spire Academy.

King Gibson

The nation's top-rated point guard who transferred to Spire Academy from Montverde.

Tarris Bouie

A 6-foot-6 forward and Alabama commit who is part of Spire Academy's talented roster.

Kevin Boyle

The legendary prep coach who is in his first season leading Spire Academy after a 14-year run at Montverde.

Dhani Miller

The senior guard leading No. 14 Montverde Academy, which is coming off a tournament win.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The Dr Pepper Classic has become a must-see event for high school basketball fans, showcasing some of the nation's top talent and programs in the sport. Chattanooga's hosting of the tournament highlights the city's growing reputation as a basketball hotbed and provides an opportunity for local fans to witness elite-level prep competition.