THE BIG HOUSE IN LAKE COUNTY SELECTED TO HOST NXTPRO BASKETBALL EVENTS IN 2026
Tavares, Fla. (March 30, 2026) – The Greater Orlando Sports Commission (GO Sports), in partnership with Discover Lake County Florida announced today that NXTPRO Hoops has selected The Big House in Lake County to host two premier basketball events in 2026. The events will draw thousands of athletes and families, and college recruiters to the region, reinforcing Lake County’s reputation as a leading destination for youth and collegiate-level sporting events.
On May 8–10, 2026, the NXTPRO PUMA Shoe Circuit will tip off with 135 elite boys’ basketball teams competing under one roof, followed by the NXTPRO PUMA Girls NCAA Live Period on July 24–27, 2026, one of the most anticipated recruiting weekends of the year. The tournament will feature 200 top girls’ teams and is projected to attract more than 100 college coaches from across the country, all evaluating rising talent during the NCAA-certified viewing window. Media interested in covering the events may apply for credentials here.
“Following a phenomenal first year in Lake County, we couldn’t be more excited to bring the NXTPRO Finals back to The Big House for 2026,” said Greg Sise of NXTPRO Sports. “The quality of the facilities and the incredible support from the Greater Orlando Sports Commission made the decision to return an easy one. We look forward to building on last year’s success and providing an even higher level of exposure and competition for our athletes and their families in 2026.”
“We are incredibly honored that NXTPRO Hoops has chosen The Big House to host these premier events in 2026,” said Gigi Lemon, owner of The Big House Tavares. “Welcoming elite athletes, their families, and college recruiters from across the country is exactly what this facility was built for. These events highlight not only the high level of competition we can support under one roof, but also the strength of our partnerships with GO Sports and Discover Lake County Florida in delivering first-class athlete and fan experiences.”
“Hosting premier events like the NXTPRO PUMA Shoe Circuit and the NXTPRO PUMA Girls NCAA Live Period underscores Lake County’s growing reputation as a top-tier destination for high-level youth and collegiate sports,” said Ryan Ritchie, Director of the Office of Tourism, Discover Lake County Florida. “These events will bring significant economic impact to our community while showcasing our facilities, hospitality partners, and ability to deliver first-class experiences for athletes, families, and college recruiters from across the country.”
“We are thrilled that NXTPRO Hoops has selected Lake County to host two of their key annual events in 2026,” said Jason Siegel, President & CEO of the Greater Orlando Sports Commission. “On behalf of our partners at The Big House and Discover Lake County Florida, we look forward to welcoming thousands of athletes, families, and college coaches from across the U.S. to our community.”
ABOUT THE GREATER ORLANDO SPORTS COMMISSION
The Greater Orlando Sports Commission (GO Sports) is a private, non-profit organization established to attract and manage sports-related events, conferences and activities that drive positive economic development in the City of Orlando, Lake County, Orange County, Osceola County, and Seminole County. Founded in 1992-93, the organization has hosted or co-hosted more than 1,700 events in the Greater Orlando area with a total economic impact exceeding $3.86 billion in spending within the community. For more information, visit GreaterOrlandoSports.com.
ABOUT NXTPRO
NXTPRO is a premier basketball circuit dedicated to providing elite-level competition and maximum exposure for aspiring collegiate and pro athletes. Through its signature events, including the NXTPRO, PRO16, and PRO16 Girls Circuit, the organization showcases top-tier teams from across the country. By hosting high-caliber tournaments at world-class venues like The Big House, NXTPRO continues to set the standard for player development and scouting opportunities for high school and youth athletes.
