Now in its fifth year, the ACES Elite Classic has been the premier destination for the top high school talent to compete in an All-American Games, and this year, they’re turning things up. This year’s AEC also marks the first time the brand will partner with WNBA Legend, Sheryl Swoopes to co-host the women’s game.
Founded by Brian Kortovich, the initial vision was to put together a star-studded high school basketball All-American game in New York City, but since then, ACES has transformed into a platform that’s at the forefront of basketball, youth athletic development, and culture. The mission is to showcase young talent and help them gain exposure, all while introducing them to the business side of basketball and what it’s like to work with trusted brands like Google Pixel, Nike and Jordan Brand, to name a few.
“At ACES, we’re positioning ourselves as the premier storytelling platform centered around sports, music & entertainment. What we’ve seen since the start, is how ACES resonates with iconic athletes, musicians & entertainers, and globally renowned brands. ACES is being recognized across the board for our unique ability to connect corporate partners with the real culture of sports and entertainment.”
What makes this year’s games even more special is that ACES is spotlighting the players who got next and right now—not only will seniors play, but incoming juniors and sophomores have also been invited to compete in the All-American Games.
The ACES Elite Classic will give fans a front row seat at the future of the game and the value of investing in an innovative grassroots high school basketball experience. Notable alumni, which include Orlando Magic’s Cole Anthony, UCONN standout Azzi Fudd and Notre Dame phenom Hannah Hidalgo, who was named ACC Defensive Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year in her first season, all continue to praise ACES for giving them an alley-oop opportunity in exposure so early on in their careers.
“I’m so excited to partner with ACES to host one of the premier high school games in the country. Supporting the next generation of hoopers has always been a passion of mine,” Sheryl Swoopes says. “We’ve got the top ranked girls coming together for one of the final showcases of the season and the ACES Elite Classic in NYC is going to be a good one!”
“Being able to play at some of the historic courts in NYC is always special,” says Hidalgo. “This area has produced some of the best basketball players in the world and a game like the ACES Elite Classic showcases just that. I’m truly blessed to represent Jersey hoops and am excited to continue doing so at the next level.”
Meanwhile, North Carolina commit Ian Jackson is ready to carry the torch at this year’s games:
“In NYC basketball is bigger than just a game, it’s a lifestyle, a movement,” he says. “New York produces some of the toughest players in the world and the ACES Elite Classic showcase is an event that highlights just that. There’s a lot of talent in NY right now and I can’t wait until we all showcase it at the next level.”
ACES will host a Media Day on May 21, followed by the ACES All-American Games on May 22 at the Gauchos Gym in the Bronx. The Girls National Game will start at 6pm ET and the Boys National Game is scheduled to start at 8pm ET.
The game is will also stream live on the NBA App. Download on the App Store to watch!
