The Gr8 Eight Middle School National Championship is the first and only national championship specifically designed for middle school basketball programs in grades 6–8.

The event features a structured, NCAA-style championship pathway with regional qualifying sites and an Elite 8 National Finals in Las Vegas.

Participation is open to boys and girls in grades 6–8 who are middle school eligible during the current academic year.

All players must meet eligibility requirements outlined by the Gr8 Eight. Verification may be requested.

Participation is by application and invitation.

Teams are evaluated and selected by the Gr8 Eight Selection Committee based on competitive level, roster composition, program structure, and overall fit within the championship format.

Submission of a Team Interest Form does not guarantee acceptance.

Championship Division: Designed for strong, competitive middle school programs capable of contending for a national championship through regional qualification and advancement.

Showcase Division: Designed for teams featuring an elite or nationally ranked player, providing a high-level, evaluation-focused national championship environment.

The Showcase Division is a stand-alone event and does not feed into the 64-team championship bracket.

Each team is guaranteed three games at its qualifying site. If they advance it to the Elite 8, they are guaranteed six games. Final placement is determined through championship and placement games.

Regional championship sites are hosted across multiple U.S. cities.

The Elite 8 National Finals for both boys and girls are held in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Showcase Division host cities alternate annually between boys and girls divisions.

Yes. Participation fees apply per accepted player, as well as a team fee.

Detailed fee structures and payment instructions are provided upon acceptance.

Official scheduling, brackets, and scorekeeping are managed through approved platforms, including Exposure, and communicated directly to participating teams.

Teams may indicate preferred regional sites on the Team Interest Form. Final placement is determined by the Gr8 Eight Selection Committee.

Team selections and regional assignments are released on a rolling basis as fields are finalized. Confirmed teams will be published on the Attendees page.

Programs interested in participating should complete the Team Interest Form.

For general inquiries, please use the Contact page or email the Gr8 Eight directly.