Opening night features four exciting matchups between rival teams: St. Pauls faces Red Springs, Whiteville goes up against Lumberton, Pinecrest plays Purnell Swett, and Dillon takes on Fairmont. Girls games start at 6 p.m., with boys following at 7:30 p.m.

During a Dec. 9 preview lunch, officials mapped out the tournament brackets for both divisions. Teams will compete in the semifinals on Dec. 19.

Teams that lose early can still play in consolation games on Dec. 18. Fifth- and third-place games are set for Dec. 20.

Last year, Fairmont won both the boys’ and girls’ championship games. Their boys team made history by winning their eighth title, matching the all-time record.

Athletic director Glenn Patterson Sr. talked about how this winter break tradition brings the community together to enjoy great basketball. Patterson told The Robesonian, “It brings the community together. People coming home for Christmas, they’re looking for something to do, and it gives them an opportunity to go see some great basketball.”

Some new teams are joining this year. Three strong programs outside the county — Pinecrest, Dillon, and Whiteville — will compete against local teams.

UNC Pembroke hosts the championship games on Dec. 21. The girls’ final tips off at 6 p.m., with the boys’ championship following at 8 p.m.