December 12–13, 2025 • Larry F. Kahl Gymnasium • Freeport, Illinois

The longest-running eight-team tournament in NJCAA basketball returns to Freeport, as Highland Community College hosts the 57th Annual William R. Bear / Dimond Bros. Insurance Tournament. A staple of Midwest junior-college basketball for more than half a century, this historic event once again welcomes programs from Illinois, Iowa, and Missouri for two days of high-level competition.

Tournament play begins Friday, December 12, at 1:00 PM, and concludes with the Championship Game on Saturday, December 13, at 9:00 PM inside the legendary Larry F. Kahl Gymnasium. The William R. Bear/Dimond Bros. Tournament has long been recognized as one of the NJCAA's premier early-season events, offering intense matchups, regional rivalries, and outstanding talent.

2025 Tournament Schedule & Matchups

(Based on the attached official bracket)

Friday, December 12 – Quarterfinals

Game 1 – 1:00 PM
Sauk Valley vs. Moraine Valley

Game 2 – 3:00 PM
Moberly vs. Macomb

Game 3 – 5:00 PM
Highland vs. Lake County

Game 4 – 7:00 PM
Southeastern Iowa vs. Rock Valley

Game 5 - 9:00pm
Loser of Game 1 and Game 2 (Consolation Semi-Final)

Saturday, December 13 – Day Two

9:00 AM – Consolation Semifinal
11:00 AM – Championship Semifinal
1:00 PM – Championship Semifinal
3:00 PM - 7/8th Place Game
5:00 PM - Consolation Championship
7:00 PM – 3rd Place Game
9:00 PM – Championship Game

A Proud NJCAA Tradition

Now entering its 57th year, the William R. Bear / Dimond Bros. Insurance Tournament remains one of the most enduring and respected events in junior-college basketball. Fans can expect competitive games, standout moments, and the signature energy that fills Larry F. Kahl Gymnasium every December.

We invite the Freeport community and all basketball fans to join us for a weekend of outstanding NJCAA basketball.