Downtown Orlando is getting a marquee college basketball showcase this winter. The Greater Orlando Sports Commission has announced that the Hall of Fame Series Orlando will debut at the Kia Center on Saturday, December 12, 2026, as part of a three-year agreement to bring the event to the city.
The day will feature two men's games with strong regional appeal. The University of Florida Gators will face Georgia Tech — a matchup that hasn't happened in nearly four decades — while Florida Atlantic University takes on Virginia Commonwealth University for just the second time since 2003. Both games are included in a single ticket, making it a full day of high-level college basketball in the heart of Orlando.
The Hall of Fame Series is owned and operated by Position Sports and specializes in pairing top collegiate programs in non-conference games at prominent venues. The 2026 doubleheader is expected to land national television coverage, with a broadcast partner anticipated to come from the ESPN family of networks.
Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings pointed to the event as a reflection of Orlando's ability to attract premier sporting events, while Allen Johnson, Chief Venues Officer for Orlando Venues, called the four-team gathering a significant opportunity for local fans. Participating schools for the 2027 and 2028 editions will be announced down the road.
Tickets covering admission to both games are currently on sale. This story was reported by Orlando-News.com.
