2025 Step Higher Tip-Off Classic: A Sold-Out Showcase of Elite Talent in Covington

The 2025 Step Higher Preseason Tip-Off Classic brought the entire Covington and Cincinnati basketball community together for a sold-out, high-energy showcase featuring powerhouse matchups, breakout performances, and unforgettable moments that set the tone for the upcoming season. With courtside seats completely sold out and fans packing the gym well before the first tip, the atmosphere was electric from start to finish as four games highlighted some of the region’s most dominant programs and rising stars.

Game 1 opened with a thriller as Pick Central edged Summit Country Day 42–41, a back-and-forth battle that came down to the final possessions. Pick Central’s standout Landon Evan delivered a commanding performance and earned Game MVP, proving why he’s one of the most exciting players to watch heading into 2025.In Game 2, Princeton defeated McNicholas 51–39, controlling the tempo and pulling away late behind disciplined team play and strong defensive energy.

Game 3 saw Lakota West take down Frederick Douglass 58–39, showcasing athleticism, depth, and defensive pressure that overwhelmed Douglass throughout the second half. Lakota West’s balanced scoring and physicality set the tone early, turning the matchup into one of the day’s most decisive wins.The final matchup of the night, Game 4, delivered the biggest storyline of the event. OTE RWE defeated Huntington Prep 85–73, but the real headline was the unforgettable homecoming moment for Taylen Kinney. Returning to perform in front of his home community, Kinney gave fans a show—leaving with the game ball and earning the MVP honor after a standout performance that ignited the building. After the game, the entire RWE squad stayed to take photos, sign autographs, and show love to the fans who packed the gym to support them.

Throughout the event, coaches and players praised the professionalism, organization, and atmosphere of the classic. Many highlighted Step Higher as an organization that’s breaking athletes into new platforms and stages, giving them visibility and opportunities to further both their academic and basketball careers. From premium production to elite matchups and community impact, the 2025 Tip-Off Classic proved exactly why Step Higher has become a must-attend destination in the region.

With every seat filled, nonstop energy in the building, and multiple games going down to the wire, this year’s Tip-Off Classic stands out as one of the program’s strongest events yet. Fans, teams, and coaches are already looking ahead—2026 can’t come soon enough.