December is the month when basketball takes over in Southwest Louisiana, and there’s no better place to experience the thrill of the game than here. From the electric atmosphere of McNeese State’s Legacy Center to the intense competition at the annual Showdown in the Lake Basketball Tournament, Louisiana’s Playground transforms into an oasis for hoop enthusiasts. The Cowboys and Cowgirls continue to prove their spot, while high school teams bring their brand of passion and talent to the court. Whether you’re a local Poke fan or just looking for an exciting way to spend your weekend, Southwest Louisiana has it all—unmatched talent, community pride, and that true game-day experience that goes far beyond the buzzer.

McNeese State University Basketball

McNeese Basketball takes the stage in December as the Cowboys and Cowgirls basketball teams shake the Legacy Center. The Cowboys host four home games throughout this month. The Pokes are a powerhouse team, dominating their way to another Southland Conference Championship title. The Cowboys’ schedule this season has been interesting, as they’ve battled #2 Alabama and had tournament play in the US Virgin Islands. Key returning players such as Alyn Breed, Jahvon Garcia, and Christian Shumate lead the team in points, as does newcomer Sincere Parker. Cowgirl Basketball takes the spotlight for a Southland Conference game on December 21st against longtime rivals Southeastern Jaguars.

Watching the Cowboys and Cowgirls take over, and the Legacy Center come alive on gameday is an experience like no other. The competition, talent, food, drinks, and community are all on another level. The Cowboys even have one of the biggest home advantages in the country, with 20 consecutive home-court wins. Tickets for both men’s and women’s can be purchased at this link, and pro-tip, get them early to avoid those long lines.

  • Dec 3 (Tue) 6 p.m. vs Santa Clara  - MBB
  • Dec 7 (Sat) 3 p.m. vs LeTourneau  - MBB
  • Dec 21 (Sat) 1 p.m. vs Southeastern  - WBB
  • Dec 28 (Sat) 4 p.m. vs New Orleans  - MBB
  • Dec 30 (Mon) 6 p.m. vs Southeastern  - MBB
Legacy Center Cheering

Showdown in the Lake Basketball Tournament

High School Basketball makes a big presence this month as well, with the 11th annual Showdown in the Lake Basketball Tournament. Hosted by Hamilton Christian Academy, this iconic basketball tournament draws in high school teams from around the state to the Southwest corner of the boot for the weekend of December 5th through 7th. With over 30 teams competing, the weekend is slated to be intense, lively, and an all-around good time. Most of the games will be held at the home point of Hamilton Christian Academy, but various courts around the area will host games as well. Don’t be shocked if you run into a group of ambitious basketball players this weekend. More information regarding times, admission, and scheduling can be found here. Get your popcorn ready for an absolutely exhilarating weekend of competition! 

  • Purchase day passes online here. 
  • VIP passes are available for $100 at the door, granting exclusive access to all hospitality rooms at Sam Houston and Hamilton.
Showdown in the Lake 2024

2024 Recap & 2025 Outlook

As we approach the end of the year, it's only fitting to highlight the successes of 2024. We’ve introduced new, exciting events to Louisiana’s Playground, including the Lake Charles Gumbeaux Gators baseball team (who just announced their 2025 season schedule), the American Junior Golf Association’s Lake Charles Junior Championship (returning April 17-20, 2025), the Bassmaster’s Louisiana High School State Bass Fishing Tournament, the First Annual Greywood Pickleball Tournament, and too many to name.

Southwest Louisiana staples like the LHSAA State Tournaments in boys’ basketball, softball, baseball, and swimming, and the Southland Conference Basketball Tournament were massive successes and are set to come back for the next couple of years. Both the Perfect Game and Jennie Finch World Series brought in over 100 teams to Lake Charles and Sulphur, living up to our reputation as the Sports Capital of Louisiana. Looking forward, we can’t wait for what 2025 will bring to the sporting world of Southwest Louisiana!

Save the Date for these 2025 events:

Gumbeaux Gators baseball team

More sporting events and details can be found on our calendar of events! For the need-to-know information, big-game updates, and successes of the sporting world in SWLA, be sure to check out Where Champions are Crowned, released on the first of each month on visitlakecharles.org. Let’s Play!