News Summary
The 44th Annual Beach Ball Classic at Myrtle Beach showcased 16 boys’ teams and 32 girls’ teams in electrifying basketball games from December 27 to 30, 2024. With crowds soaring and significant community impact, this event not only celebrated high school talent but also became a cherished family tradition. Highlights included the crowning of champions, record-setting performances, and exciting competitions like the dunk contest. Basketball enthusiasts enjoyed affordable access to games while supporting young athletes on their journey to success.
Myrtle Beach Shines as High School Basketball Stars Take Center Stage at the Beach Ball Classic
This week, the sun-kissed shores of Myrtle Beach lit up with excitement as the 44th Annual Beach Ball Classic rolled into town from December 27 to December 30, 2024. Basketball enthusiasts from near and far flocked to the Myrtle Beach Convention Center, where 16 top boys’ teams and a whopping 32 girls’ teams faced off in thrilling games.
Champions Crowned and Records Set
The tournament kicked off with high expectations, and it did not disappoint. Just last weekend, Bishop Ireton from Alexandria, Virginia, claimed the coveted girls’ title, showing off their skills and determination. As the final day dawned on December 30, excitement soared with fans eagerly anticipating the nail-biting matchups, starting bright and early at 8:30 AM. The last game of the day was set for a thrilling tip-off at 7:15 PM, ensuring that the adrenaline rush filled the air.
A Community Affair
Attendance at the Beach Ball Classic has soared, with thousands of fans coming together to cheer on their favorite teams. The energy was electric last weekend, and organizers expect even larger crowds this weekend. Beach Ball Classic President Chad Smith highlighted the impressive impact this event has on Grand Strand’s tourism, projecting around 18,000 room nights and a significant boost of at least half a million dollars in community support. That’s a pretty big deal for the local economy during the slower off-season!
A Family Tradition
For many families, attending the Beach Ball Classic has become a cherished tradition. One devoted fan, Cam Nettles, explained how his family makes it a point to attend every year. They love connecting with family, reliving memories, and celebrating past players who have made it to the big leagues, such as the NBA. It’s heartening to see how this event fosters connections, not just among players, but with fans, returning annually to witness emerging talent.
High Stakes Competition
This year, Myrtle Beach High School squared off against Windemere High School from Florida, a matchup that head coach Eric Lyons recognized as both a prestigious honor and a thrilling opportunity. The Beach Ball Classic is no ordinary tournament; it boasts more than 40 Division 1 prospects, making it a hotbed for high-level competition. It’s the kind of event where future college stars are born and where excellence is on full display.
Dunk Contest Glory
Among the many highlights was Julian Brown from Myrtle Beach High School, who took home the title of the 2024 Beach Ball Classic dunk contest champion. This marks a historic win as he became the first athlete from his school to achieve this honor, adding another layer of pride to the home ground. The buzz around the tournament’s talent doesn’t stop there, as the event also featured various contests, including a lively three-point contest showcasing sharpshooters from Socastee High School.
Getting Involved
If you’re looking to dive into the action, tickets for the tournament were available for just $15 per day at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center, making it accessible for families and basketball fans alike. The Beach Ball Classic is not only a source of entertainment but also a crucial platform for young athletes to gain valuable exposure — a stepping stone that could potentially lead them to collegiate and professional levels.
Final Thoughts
The Beach Ball Classic is more than just a basketball tournament; it’s an experience that unites communities, inspires dreams, and showcases future stars. Myrtle Beach, with its beautiful backdrop and thrill of high-high school basketball, proves once again why this annual event captures the hearts of so many. As the action-packed days come to a close, fans can look back on a fantastic week filled with determination, skill, and the love of the game.
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Additional Resources
- WBTW: Beach Ball Classic Comes to a Close
- Horry News: Julian Brown Wins Dunk Contest
- WPDE: Beach Ball Classic Dribbles Dollars
- Google Search: Beach Ball Classic
- AOL: Myrtle Beach Bowl & Beach Ball Classic
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Basketball
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
