District To Host 2nd Annual Brick City Showdown High School Basketball Classic

38 teams set to compete in 4-day tournament at Weequahic High School

NEWARK, N.J. – Newark Public Schools officials and their partners proudly announced the Brick City Showdown High School Basketball Classic 2024. The 4-day tournament is scheduled to begin on Thursday, December 19th at the District’s historic Weequahic High School. This highly anticipated tournament will showcase exceptional high school basketball talent from Newark and across the nation, highlighting athleticism, teamwork, and community spirit.

Supported by partners including Mayor Ras J. Baraka and the City of Newark, the Patrick O. Council Civic Association, the Greater Newark Convention and Visitors Bureau, and 6th Man Hoops, the Brick City Showdown has become a marquee event on New Jersey’s high school sports calendar.

“The opportunity to unite all-star high school basketball teams and players from across the state and nation with our exceptional Newark Public Schools student-athletes creates an unforgettable experience for everyone involved,” said Superintendent León.

This year’s event will feature 38 teams and over 450 players, including more than 70 scholarship hopefuls, competing in a dynamic and inclusive environment. The District will be represented by eight teams; five boys teams – American History High School, Arts High School, Central High School, East Side High School, and Weequahic High School, and three girls teams – Arts High School, Science Park High School, and University High School.  

Thousands of fans, families, coaches, media, and scouts are expected to attend, offering a unique chance to witness some of the nation’s finest young basketball talent right here in Newark.

Proceeds from the tournament will directly support scholarships for high school basketball players, helping them achieve their educational and athletic aspirations. Attendees and sponsors play a vital role in fostering the growth and success of these remarkable student-athletes.

Join us for an action-packed weekend that celebrates basketball excellence and its ability to unite and inspire communities. The Brick City Showdown is more than just a tournament—it’s a platform for showcasing talent, fostering sportsmanship, and making a lasting impact on young athletes’ lives.

Tickets are $20 for adults and $5 for students. Tickets will only be sold at the door.

For more information, visit https://www.newarkhappening.com/event/brick-city-showdown-basketball-classic/31993/

About Newark Public Schools

The Newark Public Schools is the largest school district in New Jersey and dates back to 1676.  The District currently enrolls over 39,000 students in 63 schools.  After more than two decades of state operation and upon return to local control in 2018, the District has opened ten new schools under Superintendent León’s leadership with an additional portfolio of new options to be announced in the coming months and years. The Newark Board of Education serves as a beacon of educational excellence, dedicated to nurturing the potential of every student. With a commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and fostering a love for learning, the District continues to shape future generations and make a positive impact within the community.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Paul Brubaker, Communications Director
Email: pbrubaker@nullnps.k12.nj.us
Phone: 973-803-6983

About the Greater Newark Convention & Visitors Bureau

The Greater Newark Convention & Visitors Bureau (GNCVB) is the official destination marketing organization for Newark, New Jersey. Established in 2008, GNCVB is a private nonprofit corporation funded primarily through a Tourism Improvement District (TID). Its mission is to promote Newark as a premier travel destination and drive economic growth through tourism. In 2013, GNCVB became the first Destination Marketing Organization in New Jersey to establish a TID. During its tenure, hotel sales have soared, new hotels have opened, and Newark’s visitation has grown to over 1,000,000 overnight guests annually.