City of Palms Classic canceled for the first time in its 48-year history

Officials for the Culligan City of Palms Classic have canceled the 2020 high school basketball tournament, which was scheduled to be played Dec. 18-23 at Suncoast Credit Union Arena on the campus of Florida SouthWestern State College.

According to a press release, the decision is based on continuing health and safety concerns.

Tournament organizers had been preparing several contingency plans, all with the safety and well-being of players, fans and officials in mind. However, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, organizers decided this week that the best plan of action was to cancel the tournament for 2020 and look toward 2021.

This marks the first time in its 48-year history that the tournament will not be played.

Coaches and players alike were disappointed to hear the news. Players are upset that they won’t get the chance to showcase their skills for scouts.

Many NBA players got their start in the City of Palms Classic.

Organizers of the tournament say it was a difficult decision to make but for the safety of the fans, staff and athletes they felt they needed to cancel.

But there is something to look forward to, as officials have already set the dates for the 2021 tournament. Next year’s Culligan City of Palms Classic is scheduled for Dec. 17-22 at Suncoast Credit Union Arena.

“This was without a doubt the toughest decision we have ever had to make regarding the nation’s top high school basketball tournament,” executive director John Naylor said. “With the health of the teams and fans our number one priority, we had to make this decision. We know how much people across the nation– and especially in Lee County– look forward to this great event each year, and we know the 2021 version will be viewed with high anticipation.”

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