Professional Sports in Polk County
There are numerous professional sports teams operating in Polk County.
No matter the season or the sport, you’re sure to find a team to cheer for.
Baseball
Detroit Tigers
Lakeland has served as the Spring Training home for the Detroit Tigers for more than 80 years, making it the longest standing relationship between a Major League team and a Spring Training host city.
Lakeland Flying Tigers
The Flying Tigers play a 140 game schedule with 70 games played at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium. Opened in 1966 and renovated in 2003 and 2016, the stadium has won numerous awards for its redesign and amenities. The park, which also doubles as the Detroit Tigers spring training home, seats 9,000 fans. Seating in the stadium includes box seating, reserved seating, suites, bleacher seating and a berm around in the outfield.
The Lakeland Flying Tigers play in the Florida State League and has been the High-A affiliate of the Tigers since 1967.
Get more information about the Lakeland Flying Tigers including tickets!
Basketball
Lakeland Magic
The Lakeland Magic is a G League developmental team for the NBA Orlando Magic. The team prepares not only players but front office staff and trainers for the rigors of the NBA. This is a great place to see the stars of tomorrow play today.
The Magic play a 50-game season — with 24 home games at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland — as part of the 26 team NBA G League schedule.
Soccer
There are actually two soccer teams in Lakeland. The indoor Florida Tropics SC, who play at the RP Funding Center, and the outdoor Lakeland Tropics, who compete in the Premier Development League.
For more information on Tropics soccer, click here.