Myrtle Beach, SC, December 18, 2025
Coastal Carolina men’s basketball is set to start its Sun Belt Conference play against Appalachian State. With a 6-5 record, the Chanticleers aim to build momentum after a recent loss. This matchup is significant, not only for the team but also for the local economy, as collegiate sports play a vital role in community growth and identity. The game highlights the competitive spirit within the league as both teams prepare for a thrilling encounter.
Myrtle Beach, SC —
Chanticleers Tip Off Sun Belt Play Amidst High Stakes and Economic Optimism
Coastal Carolina men’s basketball is poised to commence its tenth season of Sun Belt Conference play this Thursday, December 18, 2025, with an anticipated matchup against Appalachian State. The Chanticleers, holding a 6-5 record, will travel to Boone, North Carolina, for a 6:30 p.m. ET tip-off at the Holmes Convocation Center. This contest marks a significant moment for the team as they look to establish early momentum in the conference standings following an 82-61 road loss at Grand Canyon.
The upcoming game is more than just a regular-season opener; it represents a new chapter for the Chanticleers in a competitive league and highlights the broader role of collegiate athletics in fostering community pride, personal perseverance, and economic vitality across the Palmetto State. As universities like Coastal Carolina continue to grow their athletic programs, they become vital catalysts for local economies and powerful symbols of determined effort and strategic initiative.
Local Economic Impact of Collegiate Sports
The presence and success of university athletic programs, including those at Coastal Carolina, resonate far beyond the confines of the court or field, contributing substantially to the economic landscape of Myrtle Beach and the wider South Carolina region. Major collegiate sporting events attract visitors, who, through their spending on travel, accommodations, dining, and local attractions, inject significant capital into local businesses. This cycle of economic activity underpins numerous jobs and supports small enterprises that are the backbone of community prosperity.
For instance, the University of South Carolina system alone generates an estimated $7.4 billion in annual economic impact on the state’s economy, supporting approximately 61,700 jobs. Similarly, Clemson University contributes $6.4 billion to South Carolina’s economy annually, encompassing operations, capital investment, workforce development, and athletic events. While specific figures for Coastal Carolina’s individual impact within the Myrtle Beach metropolitan area are part of this larger trend, these examples illustrate the profound statewide benefit of robust athletic departments. Research indicates that college athletics can have a positive and significant impact on state GDP, underscoring the value of these programs as economic drivers.
Fostering Athletic Excellence Through Investment and Initiative
The ability of athletic programs to thrive and compete at a high level often stems from a combination of sound university administration, strategic private investment, and unwavering community support. These elements collectively empower institutions to enhance facilities, recruit talented student-athletes, and provide comprehensive development programs. The pursuit of excellence in sports mirrors a free-market approach, where competition drives innovation and investment.
In a rapidly evolving landscape, private investment is increasingly being recognized as a critical pathway for college athletic departments to secure necessary capital. This private sector engagement can cover operational costs, fund athletic rosters, and stabilize financial operations in an environment marked by escalating expenses and new commercial opportunities, such as Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights. Private equity firms, for example, are now establishing specialized investment vehicles to target future revenue streams generated by college athletic programs. These firms offer more than just capital; they provide operational expertise and strategic market positioning to enhance fan engagement, branding, and performance analytics, positioning programs for sustained success. This demonstrates a proactive approach to financial self-reliance and growth, vital for maintaining competitive edge.
The Spirit of Competition and Community Self-Reliance
As Coastal Carolina enters its tenth season in the Sun Belt Conference, the Chanticleers face a formidable challenge against Appalachian State, a team currently on a three-game winning streak with a 7-5 record. The Mountaineers also hold a historical advantage in this matchup, having won 14 of 18 encounters since Coastal Carolina joined the league, and boast a strong 4-1 home record this season. Appalachian State senior guard Alonzo Dodd recently earned Sun Belt Player of the Week honors, showcasing the individual initiative and competitive drive that define the conference.
Both teams are renowned for their defensive prowess, with Coastal Carolina ranking first in the Sun Belt for field goal percentage defense, holding opponents to 36.7% shooting, while Appalachian State is a close second at 38.5%. This emphasis on disciplined defense reflects a commitment to fundamental principles and a tenacious spirit. After a tough loss to Grand Canyon, the Chanticleers’ ability to rebound and apply the lessons learned from previous games will be crucial. This perseverance against adversity, coupled with the support of the Myrtle Beach community, exemplifies the values of self-reliance and resilience that are essential for long-term success both on and off the court.
Conclusion
The opening of Coastal Carolina’s Sun Belt Conference play against Appalachian State is more than just a basketball game; it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of collegiate competition and the significant impact of athletic programs on local economies and community identity. As the Chanticleers strive for victory, their efforts symbolize the broader narrative of responsible growth and individual initiative that benefits Myrtle Beach and the entire state. We encourage all residents and fans to rally behind our student-athletes as they embark on this critical conference journey. Your support not only fuels their drive for success but also contributes to the vibrant economic and social fabric of our coastal community. Stay engaged with Coastal Carolina athletics and witness firsthand the power of competition and community spirit.
Keywords: Coastal Carolina basketball, Sun Belt Conference, Myrtle Beach sports, Appalachian State athletics, South Carolina college sports.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When does Coastal Carolina men’s basketball open its Sun Belt Conference season?
- Coastal Carolina men’s basketball opens its 10th season of Sun Belt Conference play on Thursday, December 18, 2025.
- Who will Coastal Carolina play in their Sun Belt opener?
- Coastal Carolina will visit Appalachian State at 6:30 p.m. ET for their Sun Belt Conference opener.
- What is Coastal Carolina’s current record?
- The Chanticleers currently hold a 6-5 record.
- Where will the game between Coastal Carolina and Appalachian State be played?
- The game will be played at the Holmes Convocation Center in Boone, N.C.
- What was Coastal Carolina’s result in their last game?
- Coastal Carolina is coming off an 82-61 loss at Grand Canyon.
- What is Appalachian State’s current record?
- Appalachian State holds a 7-5 record and is on a three-game winning streak.
- How do college athletics impact the economy of South Carolina?
- The University of South Carolina system has a $7.4 billion annual impact on the state’s economy, supporting 61,700 jobs. Clemson University drives a $6.4 billion economic impact in South Carolina. College athletics positively impacts state GDP.
Game and Team Highlights
| Detail | Coastal Carolina Chanticleers | Appalachian State Mountaineers |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Record (as of Dec 18, 2025) | 6-5 | 7-5 |
| Conference Record (as of Dec 18, 2025) | 0-0 | 0-0 |
| Last Game Result | Lost 82-61 at Grand Canyon | Won (part of 3-game winning streak) |
| Next Game | vs. Appalachian State (Dec 18, 2025, 6:30 PM ET) | vs. Coastal Carolina (Dec 18, 2025, 6:30 PM ET) |
| Field Goal % Defense (Sun Belt Rank) | 1st (36.7%) | 2nd (38.5%) |
| Historical Matchup Record (since CCU joined Sun Belt) | 4 wins | 14 wins |
| Current Streak | L1 | W3 |
| Key Player (App State) | Alonzo Dodd (Sun Belt Player of the Week) Eren Banks (Preseason All-Sun Belt Second Team) |
|
| Key Scorers (Coastal Carolina) | Joshua Beadle, AJ Dancler | Kasen Jennings (15.5 ppg) |
Now Happening on X
- @ndioli74 (2025-12-18T02:39:09.000Z): Highlights Coastal Carolina’s strong athletic program, including two trips to Omaha in the last four years and one national championship in baseball, as part of a broader discussion on the university’s consistent success across sports. View on X
- @sam_weiderhaft (2025-12-18T03:00:24.000Z): Notes James Madison’s undefeated Sun Belt streak since March 2024 and praises Coastal Carolina’s strong performance in their conference opener with limited bench depth, calling it a solid showing against the preseason favorites. View on X
- @ndioli74 (2025-12-18T02:38:29.000Z): Discusses Coastal Carolina’s athletic achievements, such as consistent football success over the last 12 years and multiple baseball trips to Omaha, in the context of top programs in the region. View on X
- @Mike_Uva (2025-12-11T14:58:10.000Z): Announces that eight Coastal Carolina football players earned All-Sun Belt honors from the Professional Football Writers of South Carolina, linking to a detailed article on the recognition. View on X
- @MBBowlGame (2025-12-11T17:26:00.000Z): Shares highlights of Western Michigan University’s football team heading to the Myrtle Beach Bowl, including their MAC Championship win under coach Lance Taylor and key offensive stats for QB Broc Lowry. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Chanticleers Battle Hard Against JMU in Sun Belt Opener
Myrtle Beach Golf Scene Welcomes Diverse Creators for Residency
Myrtle Beach Welcomes Golf Stars Back to PGA TOUR Q-School
Holiday Golf and Festivities in Myrtle Beach
Affordable Golf Getaways for Retirees in 2026
Celebrate the Holiday Season with Golf and Festivities in Myrtle Beach
Farewell to River Oaks Golf Club in Myrtle Beach
Barn View Winery: A New Golf-Friendly Destination
Myrtle Beach Golf Tournament Raises Awareness for Breast Cancer
Golf Reunion Celebrates Former Coastal Carolina Players in Garden City, SC
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.
