(Gary, IND) – The Gary Community School Corporation (GCSC) is honored to once again serve as the host site for the annual Lakeshore Classic, taking place Friday and Saturday, December 5–6, 2025, at West Side Leadership Academy. This longstanding regional showcase—now in its 16th year—brings together high school basketball teams from across Indiana and Chicagoland for a weekend of athletic excellence, community pride, and the Classic’s signature theme: Education. Sportsmanship. Civility.
As the proud home of the West Side Leadership Academy Cougars, GCSC celebrates the opportunity for our student-athletes to compete on their home court in this premier regional event. The Lakeshore Classic has grown into one of Northwest Indiana’s most anticipated athletic and cultural gatherings, drawing more than 7,000 annual attendees and highlighting academic achievement alongside competitive play.
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GCSC Supports a Tradition that Uplifts Youth
The Lakeshore Classic—established by the Gary Chamber of Commerce under the leadership of President & CEO Charles “Chuck” Hughes—goes far beyond basketball. It reflects a shared mission between the Gary Community School Corporation and the Chamber: strengthening opportunities for youth, promoting character and leadership, and showcasing the academic and athletic excellence within our community.
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Classic Corporate Luncheon – December 2 at Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana
GCSC will join regional partners at the Classic Corporate Luncheon on Tuesday, December 2, hosted at Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana. The luncheon will feature a distinguished keynote speaker and highlight the positive economic and educational impact of the Lakeshore Classic throughout Northwest Indiana. Please note: Hard Rock Casino is a 21+ venue.
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2025 Lakeshore Classic Game Schedule
Hosted at West Side Leadership Academy – Gary, Indiana
Friday, December 5 — Represent Night – Attendees are encouraged to represent their alma mater by wearing their spirit wear from their high school or college
Boys: • 6:00 PM — West Side Leadership Academy vs. Michigan City High School • 8:00 PM — Hammond Central vs. Little Village (Chicago)
Saturday, December 6 — Divine 9 Night – Members of the nine historically Black Greek-letter organizations come and represent and showcase their fraternities and sororities to promote scholarship, sisterhood/brotherhood, and community service.
Girls: • 6:00 PM — West Side Leadership Academy vs. Munster High School
Boys: • 8:00 PM — East Chicago Central vs. Farragut Career Academy (Chicago)
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A Call for Community Support
The success of the Lakeshore Classic is made possible through strong community partnerships. Sponsorship and advertising opportunities are still available, and proceeds help expand programs that benefit youth throughout the region. Businesses and organizations are encouraged to make an impact by supporting student success and helping provide an unforgettable weekend for families and fans.
Full sponsorship details—including benefits at every level from Signature Sponsors to Fast Break Sponsors—are available through the Gary Chamber of Commerce. For sponsorship information, contact: Chuck Hughes – 219-746-6339 Jan Bowden – 219-885-7407
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GCSC: Proud Host. Proud Community. Proud Cougars.
The Gary Community School Corporation remains deeply committed to supporting events that showcase student potential, promote family engagement, and strengthen community pride across Northwest Indiana. We look forward to welcoming athletes, alumni, families, and fans to West Side Leadership Academy for an inspiring Lakeshore Classic weekend.
For more information about GCSC, visit www.garyschools.org. For Lakeshore Classic details, visit www.garychamber.com.
For the latest district news, please visit garyschools.org.