Wizardry on Ice: Jacksonville Icemen Host Florida Everblades for Saturday Night Clash
Professional Hockey Returns to VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena
It is a packed Saturday for sports fans in the Bold City as Jacksonville takes center stage for professional hockey and high-stakes championship basketball. The headline event for March 14, 2026, features the Jacksonville Icemen as they continue their home stand at the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena in a high-intensity matchup against their long-standing rivals, the Florida Everblades.
Match Day Preview: Jacksonville Icemen vs. Florida Everblades
Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 PM EDT. This evening’s contest is more than just a game; it is "Wizard Night," one of the most anticipated promotional dates on the Icemen calendar. Fans are encouraged to bring their wands for a magical atmosphere as the team celebrates the fans and local educators for "Teacher Appreciation Night."
On the ice, the stakes are high. The Icemen (21-27-8) are looking to gain ground in the ECHL standings against a formidable Everblades squad (38-12-8) that has been dominant throughout the season. Jacksonville’s Bennett MacArthur has been a player to watch in this series, having historically performed well against Florida with four points in recent matchups. Meanwhile, the Everblades arrive in Jacksonville on a hot streak, led by Isaac Nurse, who has tallied six points in his last four games. With the Icemen having gone to overtime or a shootout in six of their last 11 games, fans should be prepared for a battle that could go the distance.
- Venue: VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena
- Time: 7:00 PM EDT
- Event Theme: Wizard Night & Teacher Appreciation
Championship Basketball at UNF Arena
Beyond the professional ranks, Jacksonville is also hosting the conclusion of the FHSAA Basketball State Championships. For the first time in five decades, the state’s top high school talent has converged on the University of North Florida for a winner-take-all Saturday. The championship schedule at the CSI Companies Court at UNF Arena includes:
- Boys Class 6A Final: 12:00 PM
- Girls Class 6A Final: 2:30 PM
- Boys Class 7A Final: 5:00 PM
- Girls Class 7A Final: 7:30 PM
Whether you are heading downtown for professional hockey or over to the Southside for the crowning of Florida's basketball champions, March 14 is a premier day for Jacksonville sports culture.