University of North Florida to host 2026 FHSAA basketball state championships

On Wednesday, the Florida High School Athletic Association announced that its girls and boys basketball state championships are being relocated to the University of North Florida in Jacksonville.
On Wednesday, the Florida High School Athletic Association announced that its girls and boys basketball state championships are being relocated to the University of North Florida in Jacksonville.
Courtesy of UNF

On Wednesday, the Florida High School Athletic Association announced that its girls and boys basketball state championships are being relocated.

Lakeland has hosted the FHSAA event since 1996, but beginning with this year’s tournament in 2026, the University of North Florida in Jacksonville will serve as the host site.

“We’re thrilled to begin this new chapter for our basketball state championships at the University of North Florida,” FHSAA Executive Director Craig Damon said. “The UNF Arena is a first-class facility, and Jacksonville offers an exciting opportunity to expand the reach and impact of this event.”

Become A Member

Mainstreet does not have a paywall, but pavement-pounding journalism is not free. Join your neighbors who make this vital work possible.

Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan called it a “slam dunk” for Jacksonville.

UNF Arena, which seats more than 5,100 fans, has hosted a variety of NCAA events, concerts, and community programs. It was renovated in the Fall of 2022 with the addition of CSI Companies Court, Bank of England Hospitality Suite, and new sound and lighting systems.

“As a former FHSAA student-athlete and coach, it was always my dream to lead our teams to the FHSAA Final 4 and ultimately a state championship,” said UNF mens basketball coach Bobby Kennen. “I attended my first Final 4 in Lakeland following Coach Jim Haley’s Ocala Vanguard Runnin’ Knights, led by current Orlando Magic assistant coach Dale Osborne, in the early 1980s.  It was my first exposure to championship basketball. 

“As a first-year Division I head coach, it is almost surreal to me to be a part of this life-changing event.  All roads lead to UNF.  Dreams will be realized on CSI Companies Court at UNF Arena.  As an athletic department and as a men’s basketball team that has thrived with FHSAA student athletes, I am excited about the opportunity to share our program, our campus and our community with so many.”

According to a UNF press release, the three-year agreement will relocate the FHSAA boys and girls basketball championships to Jacksonville for the first time in nearly 50 years.

“Hosting the FHSAA Basketball State Championships on CSI Companies Court at UNF Arena is a tremendous honor and a reflection of our commitment to amplifying the University of North Florida’s visibility across the state, while driving a significant economic impact for the City of Jacksonville,” Director of Athletics Nick Morrow said in the press release. “This event not only showcases our university, but strengthens our connection with the community.

“UNF Arena has been consistently elevated as a strategic move to attract external events like the FHSAA Championships. These events validate the investment and ensure the facilities are used to their full potential, benefiting both UNF and the community. Bringing the FHSAA Championships to UNF Arena draws student-athletes, families and fans from across Florida, boosting local tourism and hospitality sections. UNF remains positioned to be a major player in Florida and a hub for hosting major events.”

It marks the first time that Duval County has hosted since the Jacksonville Coliseum served as host from 1969 to 1976.

It moved to The Lakeland Civic Center, now known as the RP Funding Center, from 1977 to 1990, and was hosted by the Tallahassee Leon County Civic Center from 1991 to 1995 before settling in Lakeland again for almost 30 years.

Last year, the Gainesville girls basketball team advanced to the FHSAA Class 5A state championship game and just missed its first state title in over a century with a 56-49 loss to New Smyrna Beach.

Jamison Cardwell, who scored 18 points in the title game, signed with the University of North Florida this past May. The first team All Area selection, who played in The Prep Zone All-Star Showcase, is currently a freshman for the Lady Ospreys basketball team.

The 2025 FHSAA Basketball State Championships are scheduled for Feb. 24-27 (Rural) and March 5-14 (1A-7A). A full schedule will be determined.

Editor’s note: This story has been updated with additional quotes.

Enjoying our local sports coverage? Get Mike Ridaught's twice weekly sports newsletter in your inbox.
Sports Newsletter Form
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments