#United States #McDonald's #Glendale #Basketball #All American Games

The Countdown Begins for the 49th Annual McDonald's All American Games

The anticipation is palpable as the 49th Annual McDonald's All American Games gears up to take place in Glendale, Arizona, marking the first time this prestigious event has been hosted in the city. Scheduled for March 31, 2026, the event will showcase the nation’s most talented high school basketball players, with 24 girls and 24 boys vying for recognition on a grand stage.

New Talent to Shine

This year, the all-star rosters were meticulously curated by a committee composed of industry experts, prep scouts, and seasoned coaches. From over 700 nominations, the chosen players represent the future of basketball, each proving they have the necessary skills and dedication to etch their names in the annals of high school sports history. Elizabeth Campbell, the Vice President of Marketing at McDonald's USA, expressed her excitement over welcoming the Class of 2026 into the event's long-standing tradition. She was quoted saying, “Nearly five decades into the McDonald's All American Games, I continue to be amazed by the talent who raise the bar every year.”

Historical Significance of the Event

The All American Games are not just another basketball competition; they signify a rite of passage for young athletes. The Phoenix area, known for its basketball heritage, is an apt venue with legends such as Skylar Diggins and Devin Booker having once graced the courts as McDonald's All Americans. With such a rich legacy, the current cohort is poised to contribute their own remarkable stories to the illustrious history of this event.

As fans prepare to witness the spectacular matchups, the event will also include additional festivities. The Sprite® Jam Fest, scheduled for March 30 at Millennium High School, will feature thrilling competitions including a 3-Point Contest, Dunk Contest, and various skills challenges, offering an exciting prelude to the main games.

Watch the Action Live

Basketball aficionados won’t want to miss a moment of the action. The official lineup for the games includes the girls' match at 7 p.m. ET followed by the boys' game at 9 p.m. ET, both of which will be aired live on ESPN. Fans are encouraged to secure their tickets through platforms like ticketmaster.com or mcdaag.com as they are expected to sell out quickly.

A Cause Bigger Than Basketball

Beyond merely entertaining, the McDonald's All American Games hold a charitable purpose. Since their inception, the event has collaborated with the Ronald McDonald House network, lending support to children and families during their healthcare journeys. The impact in Arizona has been significant, with local McDonald's franchises raising over $1.3 million to enhance the outreach and utility of the Ronald McDonald House. Throughout 2024 alone, this network supported over 4,700 families, reinforcing the importance of community in healing.

Staying Connected with the Event

As the event nears, fans can stay updated on player rosters, ticket information, and other important announcements by visiting mcdaag.com or following @mcdaag on social media platforms like X, Instagram, and TikTok. The excitement surrounding this year’s All American Games promises to deliver unforgettable moments on and off the court.

In summary, the McDonald's All American Games symbolize the culmination of hard work, talent, and community support. They honor not just the athletes, but also the values that make sports a vital part of our lives. With Glendale ready to host this landmark event in basketball, all eyes will be on the hardwood as the next generation of stars emerges to dazzle basketball fans across the nation.