The 19th annual Christmas Classic senior AAA–calibre basketball tournament gets underway on Thursday evening at the Summerside high school.
This year’s three-day event has attracted a total of 14 teams – eight girls and six boys.
The Three Oaks Axemen, who won their first-ever Christmas Classic title last season, are looking to make it two in a row this year.
Three Oaks defeated Lockview from Nova Scotia 89-70 in last year’s final.
Third year
This is the third year the women have competed in the Christmas Classic. Sussex, N.B., is back to defend its 2010 title after defeating the host Axewomen 69-48 in the final.
The Axewomen’s first game is against Millwood from Nova Scotia on Thursday at 5 p.m. That game will be followed by the Three Oaks boys taking on Lockview at 7 p.m.
Divisions
The girls’ teams are divided into two four-team divisions. The first-place team in each pool will advance to the championship game on Saturday at 1 p.m.
There are two three-team divisions on the boys’ side. The first- and second-place teams in each pool will cross over in the semifinals on Saturday at 11 a.m. The winners will then meet in the final at 3 p.m.
Both finals will be played at Three Oaks.
Tournament games will also be held at Athena Consolidated School and Summerside Intermediate School.
jpsports@journalpioneer.com
