Air quality alerts. Steam room humidity outdoors. 100 degree heat. Hecklers on the fence. Smokers on the sidelines. Cracks in the asphalt. 5-0 on the corner. The whistle blows. Tipoff ...
Summerball in NYC is as unique an experience in sports as there is. Within hours, players shift from one tournament to the next on a daily basis, yearning for the "ooh" and "aah" from the crowds that have the highest b-ball IQ in the world. Not to be described, only experienced. Use this map to get to each unforgettable moment there'll be ...
Photo by Chad Gittens
SMARTBALL Classic NYC (@SMARTBALLNYC) is a premier summer basketball showcase bringing together the top high school teams from New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. Held in the heart of New York City at Abraham Lincoln Playground in Harlem (East 135th St & 5th Ave), it is an invite only in a 32-team single elimination tournament. Its “lose and go home” format makes the games highly competitive. For most of August, the opening rounds have delivered some fantastic games that will set the stage for the coming high school season. This one-of-a-kind summerball event highlights elite talent, intense rivalries, and the region’s rich basketball culture. Fans can experience high-level competition while watching future college and professional stars compete on one stage. The SMARTBALL Classic NYC is where the Tri-State area’s best programs come to prove who rules summer basketball.
Opening night is Tuesday, July 28th at 6pm and 7:30pm. Games are played Monday through Thursday at 6pm and 7:30pm. The championship game is on Friday, August 28th at 7:30pm.
SMARTBALL Classic NYC is organized by Youth Education Through Sports, Inc (YES, Inc) YESINC.ORG.
The Ulimate Guide to New York City Summer Basketball Pocket Map. Premier Issue 2026. Published by Shirts & Skins NYC.