Philadelphia, December 23, 2025
Coastal Carolina University’s men’s basketball team displayed resilience by overcoming a 10-point deficit to defeat Saint Joseph’s 68-62. With standout performances from key players, the Chanticleers improved their season record to 8-6. This victory underscores the importance of teamwork, strategic play, and dedication within university athletics. The win not only boosts team morale but also enhances local pride and engagement in college basketball in Myrtle Beach.
Myrtle Beach, SC — Coastal Carolina University’s men’s basketball team showcased resilience and competitive spirit, overcoming an early 10-point deficit to defeat Saint Joseph’s 68-62 on December 22, 2025, in Philadelphia. This victory, fueled by standout performances from AJ Dancler and Rasheed Jones, improves the Chanticleers’ record to 8-6 and highlights the impact of dedication and strategic play within the Coastal Carolina University athletics program.
The win is a testament to the perseverance cultivated within university sports, reflecting broader themes of disciplined effort and self-reliance crucial for success both on and off the court. Such achievements not only bolster team morale but also contribute to the vibrant athletic culture that resonates throughout the Grand Strand, influencing local pride and engagement in college basketball in Myrtle Beach.
Chanticleers’ Determined Comeback
The Chanticleers faced an immediate challenge, falling behind by ten points within the game’s initial five minutes. However, Coastal Carolina swiftly regained control with a decisive 16-5 run in the first half, securing a 32-27 lead by halftime. This mid-game adjustment and focused execution underscored the team’s ability to respond to adversity, a hallmark of well-coached and prepared athletic programs.
The second half saw Rasheed Jones ignite an 8-2 run for Coastal, pushing their lead to nine points early on. While Saint Joseph’s managed to tie the game at 48-all, clutch free throws from Joshua Beadle and a three-pointer from Jones re-established a five-point advantage that the Chanticleers maintained for the remainder of the contest. Late in the game, with the Hawks closing the gap to two points, Beadle’s floater and Dancler’s timely three-pointer extended Coastal Carolina’s lead to a comfortable seven.
Individual Initiative Powers Team Success
AJ Dancler led all scorers with 21 points and achieved a career-high 12 rebounds, marking his second double-double of the season. Rasheed Jones also delivered a career-first double-double, contributing 17 points and 10 rebounds, along with five assists. Joshua Beadle matched Jones’s scoring with 17 points, including 10 in the first half and 15 in the second, demonstrating balanced offensive pressure. The team’s collective effort was evident in their 38-34 rebounding advantage and a strong defensive performance, holding Saint Joseph’s to 38.7 percent shooting from the field. These individual performances, honed through diligent practice and personal initiative, are critical to the team’s overall competitive strength.
Economic Impact and Community Development through Athletics
The success of Coastal Carolina University athletics programs extends beyond the scoreboard, creating tangible benefits for the Myrtle Beach SC sports landscape and the broader state economy. While specific economic impact figures for athletic events vary, sports tourism significantly contributes to the Myrtle Beach economy, generating substantial revenue and hotel stays annually. The presence of a competitive NCAA Division I program like Coastal Carolina enhances the region’s appeal, drawing visitors and fostering a dynamic environment that supports local businesses and employment.
Coastal Carolina’s Athletic Director, Chance Miller, has emphasized plans to further leverage the Myrtle Beach area’s robust tourism economy to generate new revenue streams and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities for student-athletes. This strategic focus on entrepreneurship and partnerships with local businesses aims to ensure the financial sustainability and competitiveness of the university’s sports programs without relying solely on traditional funding methods.
Private Investment and University Programs Bolstering Sports Infrastructure
Private investment plays a crucial role in enhancing the university’s athletic infrastructure. A notable example is the new state-of-the-art Indoor Practice Facility, a $20 million project predominantly funded by generous donations from individuals like former head football coach Joe Moglia and organizations such as Conway Medical Center with Novant Health. This 93,000-square-foot facility, completed in 2025, is strategically designed for multi-use, benefiting not only the football program but also various other athletic teams, including lacrosse and soccer, by providing a reliable training space regardless of weather conditions.
Beyond its athletic utility, the facility serves as a community resource, hosting donor and recognition events, and opening its doors to local residents, reinforcing Coastal Carolina’s commitment to community engagement and self-reliance in developing top-tier amenities. The university also supports student-athletes through comprehensive development programs like “Teal Impact,” launched in early 2025, and the long-standing “RISE Program.” These initiatives focus on holistic student-athlete development through career planning, community engagement, leadership, personal growth, and economic literacy, preparing them for success beyond their athletic careers. The Coastal Sports Collective, established in March 2024, exemplifies private collective action in supporting NIL opportunities for Coastal Carolina student-athletes, enabling them to remain competitive.
Looking Ahead: Sustaining Momentum
The Chanticleers’ victory against Saint Joseph’s provides valuable momentum as they look ahead to their next challenge. Coastal Carolina men’s basketball is scheduled to return to action on January 1, 2026, hosting Georgia Southern at the HTC Center. This upcoming home game presents another opportunity for the team to demonstrate their competitive edge and continue their pursuit of success within the Sun Belt Conference. The sustained commitment from university programs, private benefactors, and the broader community is vital in fostering a culture where student-athletes can excel, contributing to both athletic prowess and the economic vitality of the region.
Conclusion
The recent victory for Coastal Carolina men’s basketball against Saint Joseph’s is more than just a notch in the win column; it reflects the dedication of student-athletes, the strategic vision of university leadership, and the crucial support from private enterprise and community initiatives. These elements collectively strengthen Coastal Carolina University athletics and reinforce Myrtle Beach’s position as a hub for competitive sports and responsible growth. We encourage all members of the community to continue supporting our student-athletes and local athletic programs, fostering an environment where competitive spirit and personal development can thrive.
FAQ Section
- What was the final score of the Coastal Carolina vs. Saint Joseph’s men’s basketball game?
- Coastal Carolina defeated Saint Joseph’s 68-62.
- When did the Coastal Carolina vs. Saint Joseph’s game take place?
- The game took place on December 22, 2025.
- Where was the game played?
- The game was played in Philadelphia.
- Which Coastal Carolina players had notable performances?
- AJ Dancler scored 21 points and grabbed 12 rebounds. Rasheed Jones had 17 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists. Joshua Beadle also scored 17 points.
- What is Coastal Carolina’s men’s basketball team record after this game?
- Coastal Carolina’s record is 8-6.
- When is Coastal Carolina’s next men’s basketball game?
- The Chanticleers will return to action on January 1, 2026, against Georgia Southern at the HTC Center.
- What is the Coastal Carolina Indoor Practice Facility?
- It is a new 93,000-square-foot multi-use indoor practice facility, largely funded by donations, designed to support various athletic programs and serve community events.
- What is Teal Impact at Coastal Carolina University?
- Teal Impact is a holistic student-athlete development and engagement program launched in early 2025 by Coastal Carolina University, focusing on career development, community engagement, leadership, personal growth, and advocacy.
Feature Table: Coastal Carolina vs. Saint Joseph’s Game Highlights
| Category | Coastal Carolina | Saint Joseph’s |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 68 | 62 |
| Date | December 22, 2025 | December 22, 2025 |
| Location | Philadelphia, PA | Philadelphia, PA |
| Leading Scorer (CCU) | AJ Dancler (21 points) | Derek Simpson (18 points) |
| Rebounds (CCU) | AJ Dancler (12) | Dasear Haskins (9) |
| Assists (CCU) | Rasheed Jones (5) | |
| Team Rebounds | 38 | 34 |
| Coastal Carolina Record | 8-6 | 7-5 |
| Next Game (CCU) | January 1, 2026, vs. Georgia Southern (HTC Center) | |
Now Happening on X
- @4TheBracket (2025-12-23T06:15:00Z): Coastal Carolina wins 68-62 at Saint Joseph’s, holding the Hawks to 35% FG% and 17% from three; AJ Dancler led with 21 points and 12 rebounds. View on X
- @SBC_Hoops (2025-12-23T02:03:00Z): Coastal Carolina defeats Saint Joseph’s 68-62, with AJ Dancler scoring 21 points, and Rasheed Jones and Joshua Beadle each adding 17 points. View on X
- @BigFivePlusOne (2025-12-23T03:20:00Z): Coastal Carolina upsets Saint Joseph’s 68-62 on the road, ending non-conference play; AJ Dancler scored 21 points, while Derek Simpson led the Hawks with 18 in the loss. View on X
- @Aaron_Bracy (2025-12-23T01:43:00Z): Late game update: With 329 seconds left, Coastal Carolina leads Saint Joseph’s 62-55 after AJ Dancler’s three-pointer puts them up by seven. View on X
- @Aaron_Bracy (2025-12-22T02:39:00Z): Fun fact about Coastal Carolina’s coach Justin Gray, who played alongside Chris Paul at Wake Forest and is featured in the documentary A Soaring Season. View on X
- @4TheBracket (2025-12-21T06:32:00Z): Coastal Carolina beats Old Dominion 76-74 on the road, improving to 1-1 in Sun Belt play; they dominated turnovers and shot 87% from the free-throw line, led by Rasheed Jones with 23 points. View on X
- @DCI_DC2 (2025-12-19T01:37:00Z): Final score from Sun Belt Conference: Coastal Carolina 49, Appalachian State 67 at Holmes Convocation Center in Boone, NC. View on X
- @CAEaglesWBB (2025-12-19T13:40:00Z): Game day announcement for Concord Academy women’s basketball vs. CanesFBS at the Beach Ball Classic in Myrtle Beach Convention Center on December 19th. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Myrtle Beach Education: Holiday Pause and Academic Progress
Hebron Christian Wins United Bank Title at Beach Ball Classic
Coastal Carolina Men’s Basketball Team Overcomes Deficit
Myrtle Beach Sees Robust Investment in Multifamily Housing
Broncos Dominate in Myrtle Beach Bowl and Boost Local Economy
National Talent Converges for 27th Girls’ Beach Ball Classic
Upstate Hoops Shake-Up: New SC Super 25 Rankings Unveiled
Myrtle Beach Hosts 27th Annual Girls’ Beach Ball Classic
Coastal Carolina Men’s Basketball Triumphs Over Old Dominion
Chanticleers Fall to Georgia State in Sun Belt Showdown
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.
