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Spire Academy to Debut at Prestigious Metro Classic

  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. ademy-to-debut-at-prestigious-metro-classic.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, January 28th 2026 at 9:05 GMT by on3.com
      Locales: Ohio, Missouri, Kentucky, UNITED STATES

GLENVILLE, Ohio & NASHVILLE, Tennessee - January 28, 2026 - Spire Institute & Academy, the rapidly ascending force in high school basketball, will make its debut appearance at the prestigious Metro Classic in Nashville, Tennessee in December 2026. The announcement, first reported by On3 Sports, signals a major step forward for the Glenville, Ohio-based program and its ambitions to establish itself as a national powerhouse.

The Metro Classic, formerly known as the Metro-Nashville Classic, has become a cornerstone event for elite high school basketball programs across the United States. The tournament consistently attracts top talent and provides a high-profile platform for players seeking collegiate scholarships and national recognition. This year's field is expected to be particularly competitive, and Spire's inclusion adds another layer of intrigue.

"We're excited to add Spire Academy to The Metro Classic," said Marcus McGee, founder and director of the tournament. "They've built a great program, and they've got some top talent. The competition will be fierce, and we anticipate some incredible matchups."

Spire Academy's rapid rise in the basketball world has been fueled by a commitment to player development and the recruitment of highly skilled athletes. The academy's unique approach, blending rigorous academics with intense athletic training, has proven successful in attracting a diverse roster of promising players. The program has quickly gained a reputation for its disciplined structure and focus on both on-court performance and off-court character building.

Leading the charge for Spire in Nashville will be junior standout Jackson 'JC' Butler, a five-star recruit who recently transferred to the academy. Butler is considered one of the top players in his class, possessing a rare combination of size, skill, and athleticism. His presence immediately elevates Spire's profile and will undoubtedly draw significant attention from college scouts in attendance at the Metro Classic. Butler's commitment to Spire is a testament to the program's growing appeal and its ability to attract top-tier talent.

"We're looking forward to playing against some of the best teams in the country, and giving our players a chance to showcase their skills," stated Spire Academy coach Brian Turner. "The Metro Classic provides the perfect stage for our guys to compete at a high level and demonstrate the hard work they've put in. It's a great opportunity to test ourselves against national competition."

Beyond Butler, Spire boasts a roster brimming with potential. While the full team composition is still being finalized, the academy is expected to field a squad capable of making a deep run in the tournament. Coach Turner and his staff have meticulously assembled a group of players with complementary skills and a shared commitment to team success.

The Metro Classic is scheduled to tip off on December 13, 2026, promising a weekend of thrilling basketball action. The tournament will be streamed live, allowing fans across the country to witness the competition. Spire Academy's participation marks a significant milestone for the program, signaling its arrival on the national stage. Observers predict Spire will be a team to watch not only in this tournament but throughout the 2026-2027 high school basketball season. The academy's commitment to holistic player development, combined with its impressive talent, positions it for continued success and a bright future in the world of high school basketball.