HoopHall Classic 2026: Top Prospects Shine in Springfield as Stars Deliver on Final Day
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. - The 2026 Panini HoopHall Classic wrapped up in style at Blake Arena on Monday, capping off a long weekend of high-level hoops with five games that gave fans and scouts alike plenty to talk about. From gritty upsets to head-to-head showdowns between elite prospects, the final day delivered the kind of basketball fireworks that have become a staple of this annual showcase.
Let’s break down what went down on the hardwood.
Newman School Pulls Off Gritty Win Over Southeastern Prep
The day tipped off with a statement performance from Newman School, who took down a stacked Southeastern Prep team in a game that proved you don’t always need your stars to be red-hot to win. Despite cold shooting from their two nationally ranked prospects, Newman found a way - leaning on defense, hustle, and timely plays to gut out the victory.
It was the kind of win that speaks volumes about a team’s depth and resilience. When your top guys are off and you still manage to beat a talent-rich opponent like Southeastern Prep? That’s a culture win.
Dynamic Prep Handles Business Against Prolific Prep
In the second game of the day, Dynamic Prep showed why they’re not just a one-man show. Dakari Spear led the way with 20 points, showcasing a smooth scoring touch and a knack for finishing through contact. Seven Spurlock added 16 of his own, giving Dynamic Prep a balanced offensive attack that proved too much for Prolific Prep.
This wasn’t just about putting points on the board - Dynamic Prep dictated the tempo and played with a poise that belied the high school setting. Spear continues to build his case as one of the more complete guards in the class, and Spurlock’s versatility was on full display.
Smith vs. Williams: A Heavyweight Battle of Top-3 Prospects
The marquee matchup of the day came when Paul VI (PVI) squared off against Saint Mary’s, and let’s just say the hype wasn’t misplaced. With two of the top three prospects in the country sharing the floor, this one was circled on every scout’s clipboard - and both stars delivered.
Jordan Smith put on a clinic, dropping 34 points to go with 8 assists and 6 rebounds in a PVI win that felt like a statement. Smith’s ability to control the game as both a scorer and facilitator was on full display - he didn’t just fill the stat sheet, he owned the moment.
On the other side, Cameron Williams was every bit the competitor, finishing with 31 points and 3 assists in the loss. Williams played with a chip on his shoulder, attacking the rim with authority and showing off his polished mid-range game. This was a battle between two future lottery picks, and neither took a step back.
Christian Collins Outduels Caleb Gaskins in Forward Showdown
St. John Bosco’s clash with Columbus brought a different kind of star power - two of the best forwards in the country squaring off in a physical, high-energy matchup. No. 9-ranked Christian Collins and No. 23-ranked Caleb Gaskins went toe-to-toe, and while both had their moments, it was Collins who stole the show.
The unsigned senior turned in a monster performance, finishing with a game-high 24 points and 9 rebounds to lead Bosco to the win. Collins was relentless on the glass and efficient on offense, flashing the kind of two-way impact that makes him one of the most intriguing frontcourt prospects still on the board.
Gaskins showed why he’s climbing up rankings himself, but Collins’ combination of size, motor, and skill was the difference-maker in this one.
Final Takeaway
The HoopHall Classic once again lived up to its billing as the premier stage for high school basketball’s elite. Monday’s slate was a reminder of just how deep this 2026 class is - not just in top-tier talent, but in players who know how to win. Whether it was Jordan Smith’s all-around brilliance, Christian Collins’ dominance in the paint, or Newman School’s team-first grit, the day was packed with performances that will echo well beyond Springfield.
With the high school season heating up, don’t be surprised if we look back at this day as a turning point in a few players’ paths to stardom.