Thanksgiving isn’t usually the holiday we associate with scorching college hoops action and white-sand beaches, but get ready to completely flip that script for 2026. The annual Battle 4 Atlantis tournament is coming back, and trust me, this isn’t just some regular holiday getaway. We’re talking four absolutely packed days of competition, all set against the backdrop of Atlantis Paradise Island in The Bahamas. If you love college basketball and hate cold weather, this is your move.
Paradise Hoops: The Teams & The Schedule
Alright, so what’s the deal with this tournament? It’s an early-season college basketball showdown, celebrating its 15th year. The women’s teams hit the court first for their Showcase, running from November 24-26. We’ve got Davidson, Florida, Notre Dame, and West Virginia all battling it out. Then the men take over, with their tournament kicking off November 25 and wrapping up November 27. And look at this lineup, man: Marquette, Memphis, Mississippi State, Penn State, Texas A&M, Virginia, Wake Forest, and Xavier are all confirmed. Every single game is going down in the legendary Imperial Arena right there on the resort grounds. That’s some serious talent heading to the islands, and these early season tournaments always give us a peek at who’s for real.
Beyond the Buzzer: Unforgettable Island Vibes
While the college basketball action is obviously the main draw, this isn’t just about hoops. Atlantis Paradise Island is legit an entire world of stuff to do. Forget freezing your butt off; you’ve got five miles of stunning white-sand beaches and crystal blue waters waiting for you. The resort boasts Aquaventure, a massive 141-acre water park with high-speed slides, over 20 unique resort pools, and a rapid river that’s easily the biggest in The Bahamas. Wanna get up close with some marine life? Dolphin Cay lets you swim, kayak, or paddleboard with dolphins, or even play with sea lions. There’s also marine adventures like snorkeling the Ruins of Atlantis or a stingray experience. And when the sun goes down, Atlantis comes alive with nightlife, from the Aura Nightclub and Sol Casino to spots like Good Lies Mini-Golf & Sports Bar or the Moon Bar. Seriously, there’s something for everyone in the family, even if they’re not as obsessed with basketball as you are.
This whole thing is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, and here’s the kicker: if you lock in your Battle 4 Atlantis travel plans right now, you can save big. We’re talking up to 20% off the best available rates when you book for two or more nights. So, what are you even waiting for? Ditch the usual holiday routine, swap the cold for paradise, and catch some elite college basketball while you’re at it. This isn’t just a tournament, it’s an experience.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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