The SLAM Summer Classic Returns to Rucker Park: High School Hoops Heat Up NYC

Get ready for another epic showdown at the legendary Rucker Park! The SLAM Summer Classic is back for its sixth edition, presented by NBA2K25, and this year’s roster is stacked with some of the most electrifying young talent in high school basketball.

On Wednesday, August 21st, 2024, the hallowed grounds of Rucker Park will once again play host to future basketball stars. Twenty-eight players, representing the top prospects in both boys and girls high school basketball, will go head-to-head in what promises to be a display of raw talent and athleticism.

For those lucky enough to be in New York City, doors open at 4 p.m. ET, with the girls’ game tipping off at 5 p.m. ET followed by the boys’ game at approximately 7 p.m. ET. But don’t worry if you can’t make it to Harlem, you can catch all the action streaming live on the NBA App.

A New Generation of Stars Set to Shine

Last year, Cooper Flagg left spectators in awe with his buzzer-beating heroics. This year, the anticipation is palpable as a new wave of future stars prepares to etch their names in Rucker Park history.

The boys’ game features a constellation of talent, headlined by AJ Dybantsa, the No. 1 ranked player in ESPN’s Class of 2025. Joining him are Caleb Wilson (No. 5), Chris Cenac (No. 6), Meleek Thomas (No. 7), Nate Ament (No. 8), and Brayden Burries (No. 11), all eager to showcase their skills on this iconic court.

Adding another layer of intrigue to the matchup is the presence of several players with famous last names. Kiyan Anthony, son of NBA legend Carmelo Anthony, and Jacob Wilkins, son of Hall of Famer Dominique Wilkins, will be looking to follow in their fathers’ footsteps. Miikka Muurinen, fresh off a dominant performance at the Nike EYBL Peach Jam final, is another name generating serious buzz. And keep an eye out for TikTok sensation Jake West, who will be bringing his unique brand of flash and flair to the court.

The girls’ game is equally stacked, with Aaliyah Chavez, the No. 1 ranked player in ESPN’s HoopGurlz recruiting rankings, leading the charge. Jerzy Robinson (No. 1 in the Class of 2026), Sienna Betts (No. 2 in 2025), Olivia Vukosa (No. 2 in 2026), and Aaliyah Crump (No. 4 in 2025) round out a roster brimming with talent and potential. Keep an eye on Agot Makeer and Grace Knox, both top 10 prospects in the Class of 2025, as they look to make their mark on the national stage.

More Than Just a Game: A Legacy of Excellence

The SLAM Summer Classic is more than just a basketball game; it’s a celebration of the sport’s rich history and a glimpse into the future of the game. Rucker Park, with its storied past as a proving ground for basketball legends, provides the perfect backdrop for this showcase of rising stars.

This year’s event promises to be another unforgettable chapter in the SLAM Summer Classic legacy, a testament to the enduring power of basketball to inspire and electrify audiences. Don’t miss your chance to witness the next generation of basketball superstars as they take center stage at Rucker Park.

SLAM Summer Classic: Boys and Girls Rosters

Boys Roster: (Rankings via ESPN)

Girls Roster: (Rankings via ESPN)