Conway, South Carolina, December 29, 2025

The Coastal Carolina Chanticleers women’s basketball team is set to host Columbia College at the HTC Center, both teams vying for a win with matching 6-7 records. This non-conference matchup highlights the competitive spirit of college sports and showcases the university’s commitment to student-athlete development and community engagement. The event not only promises thrilling athletic action but also reinforces the local economic impact of university athletics in the Grand Strand region, emphasizing the partnership between higher education and the local community.

Myrtle Beach, SC —

Coastal Carolina Women’s Basketball Prepares for Non-Conference Battle at HTC Center

The Coastal Carolina Chanticleers women’s basketball team is set to host Columbia College on Monday, December 29, 2025, at the HTC Center, promising an evening of competitive collegiate athletics for the Conway community. With both teams entering the contest holding identical 6-7 records, the non-conference matchup highlights the competitive spirit inherent in college sports and underscores the local impact of university athletic programs.

This event not only offers thrilling athletic action but also serves as a testament to the university’s commitment to student-athlete development and community engagement. As the Chanticleers return to their home court, the game exemplifies how strategic university initiatives, bolstered by local support, contribute to the economic vitality and cultural richness of the Grand Strand area.

A Hub for Community and Competition: The HTC Center

Local Impact of Collegiate Sports

The HTC Center stands as a cornerstone of athletic and community life in Conway, South Carolina, serving as the proud home for Coastal Carolina University’s men’s and women’s basketball and women’s volleyball teams. This modern, 3,370-seat multi-purpose arena, whose naming rights were acquired by Horry Telephone Cooperative (HTC) in 2012, showcases a successful synergy between higher education and local enterprise.

Collegiate athletic events like this basketball game are far more than just competitions; they are significant economic drivers for Conway and the broader Myrtle Beach region. The presence of Coastal Carolina University itself generates a substantial economic impact, contributing $565.8 million to South Carolina’s economy last year alone. Events at the HTC Center bring visitors, spectators, and media attention, translating into increased local expenditures at hotels, restaurants, and retail establishments. The state of South Carolina recognizes tourism as a $20 billion industry, and successful college sports programs significantly enhance the state’s positive exposure, making it easier to promote as a destination.

University’s Commitment to Athletic Excellence and Development

Strategic Investment and Private Initiative

Coastal Carolina University demonstrates a robust commitment to fostering both athletic success and the holistic development of its student-athletes. This commitment is evident through various programs and strategic investments, often supported by private initiative and community collaboration. The Chanticleer Athletic Foundation (CAF) plays a pivotal role, operating funds like the CAF Impact Fund. This fund, enhanced by annual, tax-deductible donations, provides essential resources such as scholarships, academic support, personal development opportunities, sports nutrition, and equipment for the university’s more than 500 student-athletes.

Furthermore, the university has launched the “Teal Impact” program, a comprehensive model dedicated to student-athlete development and engagement. This innovative initiative focuses on five core pillars: Career Development, Community Engagement, Leadership, Personal Growth, and Advocacy. It underscores Coastal Carolina’s dedication to preparing its student-athletes for success both during their time at the university and in their future endeavors, fostering economic literacy and career planning.

The Value of Fair Competition and Community Engagement

Fostering Local Pride and Student Achievement

The spirit of competition inherent in college sports is a powerful force, cultivating discipline, teamwork, and resilience among student-athletes. Coastal Carolina’s women’s basketball team, under the banner of “Coastal Chaos” – a philosophy emphasizing tough defense and disrupting opponents – exemplifies this drive for excellence. The Chanticleers consistently rank among the nation’s leaders in three-point shooting and turnovers forced, a testament to their strategic approach and competitive initiative.

Beyond the scoreboard, the university actively promotes community engagement through its “Chants in the Community” program, which facilitates student-athlete participation in charitable and non-profit activities. These efforts strengthen the bond between the university and local residents, enhancing civic responsibility and demonstrating the positive contributions of student-athletes as goodwill ambassadors. The success of college athletic programs also has a tangible impact on the university’s reputation, potentially influencing admissions and alumni engagement, which further contributes to the institution’s long-term prosperity.

A Look at the Matchup

Chanticleers and Koalas on the Hardwood

Monday’s non-conference game pits two evenly matched teams against each other, both holding 6-7 records. The Coastal Carolina Chanticleers will look to capitalize on their strengths, notably their high-volume three-point shooting, where they rank 14th nationally in three-pointers per game and 21st in attempts. Key players for Coastal Carolina include Tessa Grady, who leads the team in scoring with 13.9 points per game, and freshman Kinsea Grimes, a dynamic talent who has already recorded multiple double-digit scoring performances, including three games with over 20 points.

Facing them will be the Columbia College Koalas, an NAIA team also looking to improve their record. The Koalas’ offense is led by Anaya Muhammad, averaging 12.7 points per game. Their head coach, Toccara Toland, is in her first year leading the program. Historically, Columbia College holds an 11-7 series lead over Coastal Carolina, though the Chanticleers have won the last three meetings between the two teams. The game, set for a 6:00 PM ET tip-off, will be available for fans to watch live on ESPN+ and the Chanticleer Sports Network.

Conclusion

As Coastal Carolina women’s basketball prepares to face Columbia College, this event symbolizes the vibrant interplay between competitive sports, educational development, and community strength. Collegiate athletics in Conway and the broader Grand Strand region foster not only athletic excellence but also drive local economic activity and cultivate a sense of shared pride and engagement. Supporting these programs, whether through attendance, merchandise, or contributions to initiatives like the Chanticleer Athletic Foundation, directly invests in the futures of student-athletes and the continued prosperity of the local community. Residents and visitors are encouraged to engage with Coastal Carolina University athletics, recognizing their invaluable contribution to the area’s dynamic future.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Coastal Carolina women’s basketball game against Columbia College?

The game is scheduled for Monday, December 29, 2025, at 6:00 PM ET.

Where will the game be played?

The game will be played at the HTC Center in Conway, South Carolina.

What are the current records for Coastal Carolina and Columbia College?

Both Coastal Carolina and Columbia College hold a 6-7 record this season.

Who are some key players for Coastal Carolina?

Tessa Grady leads Coastal Carolina in scoring with 13.9 points per game, and freshman Kinsea Grimes is a dynamic player with multiple double-digit scoring games.

Who is a key player for Columbia College?

Anaya Muhammad leads Columbia College in scoring with 12.7 points per game.

What is the economic impact of Coastal Carolina University on South Carolina?

Coastal Carolina University generated an economic impact of $565.8 million on South Carolina last year.

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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.