In the world of elite youth basketball, the Under Armour Elite Next 24 (UA Next 24) has quickly become one of the most anticipated events of the year. Bringing together the nation’s top 24 high school basketball players, this showcase is more than just a display of talent; it’s a celebration of the future stars of the game. The 2024 edition of UA Next 24 took things to the next level, quite literally, with a court design that embodied the intense competition and contrasting styles of play on display. Praters Flooring, known for its exceptional courts, delivered the striking “Fire and Ice” theme through their innovative PlayOn Decals, turning the basketball court into an unforgettable visual and competitive experience.

The “Fire and Ice” theme was the perfect metaphor for the intense matchups at UA Next 24. Fire, symbolizing passion, aggression, and heat-of-the-moment intensity, met Ice, representing cool composure, precision, and strategic play. These two elements were artistically woven into the court’s design, creating a visually dynamic battlefield where opposing forces would clash. Praters Flooring’s PlayOn Decals brought this theme to life in a way that captivated both the players on the court and the fans in the stands.

Praters Flooring has long been at the forefront of court design innovation, and their PlayOn Decals are a testament to their commitment to excellence. Unlike traditional court painting, these decals allow for intricate, high-resolution designs that can be applied with precision and changed as needed. For the UA Next 24, Praters utilized these decals to seamlessly integrate the Fire and Ice theme across the entire playing surface. The result was a stunning visual experience that highlighted the duality of the game—intense yet calculated, passionate yet controlled.

As players stepped onto the court, they were greeted by a visually striking floor that split down the middle, with one half bathed in fiery reds, oranges, and yellows, and the other in cool blues and icy whites. Flames licked up from the baseline, while icy shards appeared to crackle and spread from the opposite end. The center court logo merged these two elements, symbolizing the inevitable clash of these powerful forces. The court not only served as a playing surface but also as a canvas that told the story of the competition and the opposing styles each player brought to the game.

The Fire and Ice theme wasn’t just a backdrop; it became part of the narrative for the players themselves. Some brought the fire, with aggressive drives to the basket, high-energy defense, and a relentless pursuit of victory. Others embodied ice, showcasing their cool under pressure, strategic shot selections, and precise passing. The court design elevated the entire event, making each play feel like part of a larger story of competition, rivalry, and mutual respect.

The 2024 UA Next 24 wasn’t just a basketball game—it was an experience. The Fire and Ice-themed court added layers of meaning and excitement, enhancing the players’ performances and the fans’ enjoyment. The PlayOn Decals provided a perfect canvas for the event, proving that a basketball court can be more than just a playing surface; it can be a central part of the spectacle.

Under Armour’s Elite Next 24, built on Praters Flooring’s Fire and Ice-themed PlayOn Decals, was a masterclass in how thoughtful design can elevate a sporting event. The combination of elite youth talent and a visually stunning court created a memorable showcase that will be talked about for years to come. As Praters continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in court design, one thing is clear: the game will never look the same again.