Chanticleers Fall to Georgia State After Halftime Lead

Myrtle Beach, SC, January 5, 2026

Coastal Carolina Men’s Basketball faced a tough challenge against Georgia State, losing after a strong first half. Initially leading 34-25, the Chanticleers fell victim to a powerful second-half performance by the Panthers, who shot 76% from the field. The game highlighted the competitive nature of college basketball and the significance of consistent performance. Coastal’s impressive start was overshadowed by Georgia State’s remarkable shooting, emphasizing the unpredictable dynamics of sports. Community support for the Chanticleers remains vital for the growth and success of the athletic program.

Myrtle Beach, SC —

Chanticleers Fall to Georgia State After Halftime Lead

Coastal Carolina Men’s Basketball was unable to maintain an early advantage, ultimately succumbing to Georgia State’s potent second-half shooting performance in a recent Sun Belt Conference matchup. The game, held at the HTC Center in Conway, underscored the intense competition within collegiate athletics and the critical importance of sustained effort.

The Chanticleers initially showcased strong play, building a comfortable lead by halftime. However, a remarkable offensive surge by the Georgia State Panthers in the second half shifted the momentum decisively, leading to an 89-71 victory for the visitors. This outcome highlights the dynamic nature of basketball, where competitive spirit and strategic execution can turn the tide swiftly.

Competitive Arena and Local Pride

The Role of University Athletics in Myrtle Beach

The presence of Coastal Carolina University athletics serves as a significant anchor for the Myrtle Beach community, fostering local pride and offering engaging entertainment for residents and visitors alike. Events at the HTC Center, such as the recent game against Georgia State, draw spectators and contribute to the vibrant local scene. The university’s commitment to competitive excellence extends beyond the scoreboard, aiming to elevate the region’s profile.

Coastal Carolina University’s athletic programs are not merely about sports; they are integral to the identity and economic well-being of the broader Horry County area. Strategic investments in facilities, coupled with a focus on student-athlete development, enhance the overall experience for participants and fans. The continued growth of “Teal Nation” reflects a shared commitment to building a robust athletic tradition in the region.

The Value of Strategic Planning and Execution

Halftime Adjustments and Second-Half Performance

In the recent contest, Coastal Carolina held a 34-25 lead at halftime and further extended their advantage to 11 points early in the second half. However, Georgia State responded with a decisive run, primarily fueled by exceptional perimeter shooting. The Panthers connected on an impressive 14 of 15 three-point attempts in the second half, shooting 76.0 percent from the field after the break. This remarkable offensive output allowed Georgia State to tie the game at 64-all with 7:35 remaining and seize the lead for good at the 6:17 mark, ultimately closing the game on a 25-7 run.

This turn of events underscores the critical role of adaptability and strategic adjustments in competitive sports. While Coastal Carolina’s early performance demonstrated solid execution, Georgia State’s ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities in the second half illustrates how initiative and persistent effort are essential for securing victory.

Sustaining Athletic Programs Through Local Support

Private Initiative and Community Engagement

The success and growth of university athletic programs, including those at Coastal Carolina, are significantly bolstered by a blend of university-led initiatives, private investment, and active community engagement. Coastal Carolina University has made substantial investments in its athletic infrastructure, including a state-of-the-art indoor practice facility, to enhance competitive excellence and develop student-athletes. These facility upgrades and program enhancements extend their benefits beyond the campus, generating tangible economic advantages for Myrtle Beach and the state of South Carolina.

Moreover, the university has implemented programs such as “Teal Impact,” launched in January 2025, which focuses on the holistic development of student-athletes through career development, community engagement, leadership, personal growth, and advocacy. Such initiatives are crucial for cultivating well-rounded individuals who can contribute positively to society. The Athletic Director has expressed a commitment to integrating alumni, donors, local businesses, and the wider community into these programs, recognizing the collective power of these partnerships.

The Broader Landscape of South Carolina Sports

Sun Belt Conference Dynamics

Coastal Carolina’s participation in the Sun Belt Conference positions its athletic programs within a competitive regional framework that contributes to South Carolina’s broader sports narrative. The conference provides a platform for student-athletes to test their skills against diverse competition and represents a significant aspect of collegiate sports in the state. The intensity of games like the recent contest against Georgia State reflects the overall caliber and competitive spirit within the Sun Belt Conference.

University athletics, exemplified by Coastal Carolina, generate substantial economic activity. Coastal Carolina University alone contributed $565.8 million to South Carolina’s economy in the past year through its academic programs and community engagement efforts. This economic impact, coupled with the fostering of community spirit, underscores the value of robust collegiate sports programs as drivers of local prosperity and regional identity.

The recent game, while a challenging outcome for the Chanticleers, serves as a reminder of the competitive nature of Sun Belt Conference basketball and the importance of continuous development. Coastal Carolina athletics remains a vital component of the Myrtle Beach community, enriching local culture and contributing to the economic vitality of the region. Supporting these programs, whether through attending games or engaging with university initiatives, directly fosters the growth and success of student-athletes and strengthens the community at large.

Stay engaged with Coastal Carolina athletics and support our student-athletes as they continue to represent Myrtle Beach with pride and determination. Your involvement is key to building a thriving sports culture and ensuring future success for the Chanticleers.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What was the final score of the Coastal Carolina vs. Georgia State men’s basketball game on January 3, 2026?
  The final score was Georgia State 89, Coastal Carolina 71.
• Did Coastal Carolina hold a lead at halftime?
  Yes, Coastal Carolina led Georgia State 34-25 at halftime.
• What was Georgia State’s shooting performance in the second half?
  Georgia State shot an impressive 76.0 percent from the field and connected on 14 of 15 three-point attempts in the second half.
• Who were the leading scorers for Coastal Carolina?
  Rasheed Jones led Coastal Carolina with 18 points, and AJ Dancler added 16 points.
• What is the economic impact of Coastal Carolina University on South Carolina?
  Coastal Carolina University generated $565.8 million for South Carolina’s economy last year.
• What is the Teal Impact program at Coastal Carolina University?
  The Teal Impact program, launched in January 2025, is a holistic student-athlete development and engagement program focusing on career development, community engagement, leadership, personal growth, and advocacy.

Game and Team Highlights

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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.