Eight schools are set to compete in this year’s Cayman Islands Classic women’s basketball tournament.
Oklahoma State, Georgia Tech and Florida, which played in postseason tournaments last year, head the field for the third edition of the tournament hosted by Caymax Sports Ltd.
Charlotte, George Washington, Memphis, Miami and St John’s will complete the lineup at John Gray Gymnasium in George Town on 28 and 29 November, a press release said.
“As we head into year three of the women’s Cayman Islands Classic, we’re proud to welcome eight of the top programmes in the nation,” said Joe Wright, owner and CEO of Caymax Sports Ltd.
“This year’s field is stacked with elite talent and experienced coaches, setting the stage for intense, high-level competition.
“Combining great basketball with the stunning beauty of the Cayman Islands, teams and fans can expect an unforgettable experience on and off the court.”
Records and achievements
Oklahoma State posted a 25-7 record last season, advancing to the NCAA Tournament while being ranked number 22 in the final USA Today Sports Women’s Basketball Coaches Poll.
The Cowgirls, under coach Jacie Hoyt, went 14-4 to finish third in the Big 12 Conference.
Georgia Tech played in the 2025 NCAA Tournament en route to a 22-11 record. First-year coach Karen Blair inherits the team that reached the NCAA Tournament.
Florida had a 19-18 mark last season under fifth-year head coach Kelly Rae Finley, advancing to the semifinal round of the WBIT.
St John’s coach Joe Tartamella has led the team to five 20-plus victory campaigns during his tenure at the Big East Conference school.
Tricia Cullop, two-time past president of the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association, enters her second year as head coach at Miami.
Ganiyat Adeduntan is in her first year as head coach at George Washington, which plays in the Atlantic 10 Conference.
Charlotte and Memphis compete in the American Athletic Conference.
Executive tournament director Lisa Stockton said that as a former head coach, she knows how important early-season competition is.
“This year’s Cayman Islands Classic is among the most competitive tournaments in the country, featuring an impressive lineup of elite coaches and talented players,” she said.
“We’ve brought together a strong field with both power conference teams and top mid-major programs, setting the stage for an exceptional tournament.
“With high-level talent and experienced coaches across the board, basketball fans can look forward to intense competition.”
