Lexington, Kentucky, January 30, 2026

The Kentucky High School Athletic Association has scheduled the Sweet 16 Draw Show for February 3, 2026. This event reveals the regional matchups for the Girls’ and Boys’ Basketball Sweet 16 tournaments, stirring excitement among fans. Hosted by WKYT’s Dave ‘Buzz’ Baker and Brian Milam, the show will stream live on the NFHS Network. Anticipation mounts as the community gears up for the tournaments at Rupp Arena, celebrating local talent and teamwork.

Excitement Builds for the 2026 KHSAA Sweet 16 Draw Show

Mark Your Calendars for February 3, 2026!

Lexington, Kentucky – The Kentucky High School Athletic Association (KHSAA) has confirmed that the upcoming Sweet 16 Draw Show will be held on February 3, 2026, at 2 p.m. Eastern Time. This much-anticipated event unveils the regional matchups for both the Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Girls’ Basketball Sweet 16 and the UK HealthCare Boys’ Basketball Sweet 16 tournaments, setting an exciting tone for what is sure to be a thrilling basketball season.

In a demonstration of commitment to fostering community spirit through athletics, the Draw Show will be hosted by WKYT’s Dave “Buzz” Baker along with KHSAA Communications and Media Relations Director Brian Milam. Fans will be able to tune in live via the NFHS Network, accessible through the KHSAA’s website, ensuring that those invested in local high school sports can follow along as the pairings are revealed.

A Legacy of Excellence at Rupp Arena

The Sweet 16 tournaments have a long-standing tradition of taking place at Rupp Arena, a landmark in Lexington that has hosted countless memorable sporting events. Scheduled for March 11-14, 2026, the Girls’ Sweet 16 will kick off the festivities, followed by the Boys’ Sweet 16 from March 18-21, 2026. These tournaments serve not only to highlight athletic excellence among Kentucky’s youth but also to strengthen community ties by bringing together fans, families, and supporters from across the state.

Key Information about the Sweet 16 Draw Show

• Event Date and Time: February 3, 2026, at 2 p.m. Eastern Time
• Hosts: WKYT’s Dave “Buzz” Baker and KHSAA Communications and Media Relations Director Brian Milam
• Broadcast Platform: Live on the NFHS Network, accessible through the KHSAA website
• 2026 Girls’ Sweet 16 Dates: March 11-14, 2026
• 2026 Boys’ Sweet 16 Dates: March 18-21, 2026
• Venue: Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky

Community Engagement in Kentucky Athletics

The proactive involvement of local organizations, schools, and athletic programs in the planning of these tournaments exemplifies a flourishing civic environment. Decisions driven by community leaders and stakeholders often lead to less bureaucratic red tape, enabling faster coordination and better overall experiences for participants and fans alike. It is through such initiatives that we see the individual achievement of young athletes celebrated and the spirit of competition fostered.

The opportunity to support young athletes promotes not only teamwork but also a sense of pride within Lexington and the surrounding areas. By embracing the Sweet 16 tournaments, community members can come together to celebrate local talent and heritage.

Looking Forward to the Games

As we approach the Draw Show, anticipation builds within the community for what is certain to be a showcase of skill, sportsmanship, and enthusiasm. Parents, students, and supporters are encouraged to stay engaged and support their teams through to the tournaments. This event is an excellent opportunity for local businesses and residents to rally behind youth athletics, ensuring that every player competing has the chance to achieve and exceed expectations.

Conclusion

The 2026 KHSAA Sweet 16 Draw Show marks a pivotal moment for Kentucky high school sports, acting as a springboard into the excitement of tournament play. Lexington stands poised to welcome athletes and fans alike, reinforcing the value of community engagement in sporting events. As we gear up for this year’s tournaments, it’s a perfect time to get involved and support local youth athletics, ensuring a vibrant future for high school sports in our area.

Key Features of the 2026 KHSAA Sweet 16 Draw Show

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