Star-studded Progressive Celebrity Pro-Am driven by Yokohama Tire set to launch 2026 Bassmaster Classic festivities in Knoxville

By
Brian Carter
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5

Feb. 26, 2026

Star-studded Progressive Celebrity Pro-Am driven by Yokohama Tire set to launch 2026 Bassmaster Classic festivities in Knoxville

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — A who’s who of sports, music and entertainment will descend on Knoxville, Tenn., as B.A.S.S. and Progressive Insurance announce the return of the wildly popular Bassmaster Classic Progressive Celebrity Pro-Am driven by Yokohama Tire, a marquee event that will kick off celebrations surrounding the 2026 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.

The Celebrity Pro-Am has quickly become one of Classic week’s most anticipated traditions, bringing together household names from across the sports and entertainment world with some of the top professional anglers on the planet for a day of friendly competition and unforgettable fan experiences.

“The Celebrity Pro-Am captures everything that makes the Bassmaster Classic special — competition, camaraderie and a chance to introduce new fans to the sport,” said B.A.S.S. Chief Operations Officer Phillip Johnson. “Each year the event grows in excitement and reach, and Knoxville provides the perfect stage to showcase the energy of Classic week.”

Teams will compete for prizes including a set of Yokohama tires, Bass Pro Shops gift cards and a Turtlebox speaker while helping launch a weeklong celebration of bass fishing and outdoor lifestyle that draws fans from across the world.

The event highlights the continued crossover between competitive fishing and mainstream culture, pairing celebrity guests with top anglers from the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series and Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens presented by Battery Tender.

Celebrity participants include:

  • Lavell Crawford — Acclaimed comedian and actor known for roles in Breaking Bad and numerous stand-up specials; a longtime outdoor enthusiast.
  • Randy Moss — Pro Football Hall of Fame wide receiver widely regarded as one of the most electrifying players in NFL history.
  • Clay Guida — UFC lightweight legend and fan favorite known for his relentless fighting style.
  • Koe Wetzel — Chart-topping country and rock artist with a passionate national fan base.
  • Justin Martin — Professional angler and fishing personality with deep roots in tournament competition.
  • Garrett Walters — Outdoor personality and content creator known for connecting with fans through social media.
  • Andrew Bishop — Lead electric guitarist of The Red Clay Strays, known for his soulful riffs and high-energy stage presence.
  • Ronnie Adams — Entertainer and outdoorsman passionate about fishing and conservation.
  • John Crimber — World-class rodeo bull rider and one of the sport’s rising stars.
  • Tedy Bruschi — Three-time Super Bowl champion linebacker and respected football analyst.
  • Brody Malone — American artistic gymnast and Olympian known for his strength on the high bar and all-around consistency on the internation stage.
  • Bronson Steiner — Known as Bron Breakker in wrestling circles, this two-time WWE Intercontinental champion has a passion for bass fishing.
  • Tony D’Angelo — WWE Superstar known for his charismatic personality and fan following.
  • Jeffery Simmons — Pro Bowl defensive tackle for the Tennessee Titans and avid outdoorsman.
  • Patrick Queen — NFL linebacker known for his playmaking ability and leadership.
  • King Pedford — Social media personality bringing humor and outdoor passion to new audiences.
  • Lee Ellis — Musician and songwriter with strong ties to the outdoor lifestyle.
  • Will Anderson Jr. — NFL standout pass rusher and one of football’s brightest young defensive stars.
  • Casey Currie — Championship off-road racer and motorsports personality.
  • Darryl Moore — Outdoor advocate and member of the 24.7 Hunt crew dedicated to growing participation in fishing.
  • Levi Kitchen — Professional motocross racer competing at the highest level.
  • Tim Montana — Musician known for high-energy performances and love of the outdoors.
  • Chris Bee — World champion archer and outdoor content creator.
  • Ross Chastain — Dynamic NASCAR Cup Series driver known for his aggressive racing style and love of the outdoors.
  • Blake Grupe — NFL kicker recognized for his consistency and competitive drive.
  • Matthew Golden — Rising football star known for speed and athleticism.

Celebrity Pro-Am pairings:

The weigh-in for the Progressive Celebrity Pro-Am driven by Yokohama Tire will take place during the Bassmaster Classic Kickoff Party at Covenant Health Park at 5:15 p.m., followed by a one-hour celebrity meet-and-greet with fans.

Festivities will continue with the Classic Kickoff Afterparty beginning at 7:30 p.m., featuring a live concert, fireworks display and a fan festival with fun and games for the whole family.

For more information about the Bassmaster Classic, visit Bassmaster.com.

2026BassmasterClassic Title Sponsor: Bass Pro Shops

2026BassmasterClassic Presenting Sponsor: Under Armour

2026BassmasterClassic Platinum Sponsor: Toyota, Progressive

2026BassmasterClassic Premier Sponsors: Bass Pro Shops, Humminbird, Mercury, Minn Kota, Mountain Dew, Nitro Boats, Ranger Boats, Rapala, Skeeter Boats, Yamaha

2026BassmasterClassic Outdoors Expo Presenting Sponsor: TNT Fireworks

2026BassmasterClassic Local Partner: TNT Fireworks, Calhoun’s, TN Tourism, TVA, Whataburger

2026BassmasterClassic Youth Forum Sponsor: U.S. Army

2026 Bassmaster Classic Takeoff Sponsor: Melin

2026BassmasterClassic Weigh-In Sponsor: Yokohama

2026BassmasterClassic Kickoff Party Title Sponsor: Daiwa

2026BassmasterClassic Kickoff Party Presenting Sponsor: TNT Fireworks

2026BassmasterClassic Tailgate Title Sponsor: Progressive

2026BassmasterClassic Tailgate Presenting Sponsor: Maxam Tire

2026BassmasterClassicCelebrityPro-Am Title Sponsor: Progressive

2026BassmasterClassicCelebrityPro-Am Presenting Sponsor: Yokohama Tire

2026 Bassmaster Classic Fishing Pond Sponsor: Zebco

2026BassmasterClassic Host: Visit Knoxville Sports Commission