Myrtle Beach, SC, December 23, 2025
In a thrilling championship game at the Beach Ball Classic, Hebron Christian claimed victory over North Mecklenburg with a score of 48-39. The tournament showcased talented high school basketball teams, further enhancing the reputation of Myrtle Beach as a premier sports destination. Hebron Christian demonstrated their prowess by leading most of the game, culminating in an impressive performance that highlighted the essence of competition and community spirit.
Myrtle Beach, SC
Hebron Christian Claims Beach Ball Classic United Bank Title
The prestigious United Bank bracket championship delivered a high-stakes showdown, showcasing premier prep basketball talent in Myrtle Beach.
Myrtle Beach’s vibrant sports scene once again took center stage as the Beach Ball Classic brought together some of the nation’s most disciplined and talented high school basketball programs. This annual tournament serves as a crucial platform for young athletes to demonstrate their skills, cultivate sportsmanship, and forge lasting character through intense competition. For many, it’s an opportunity to experience high-pressure games that build resilience and underscore the value of teamwork and personal responsibility. The championship game of the United Bank bracket, held on December 22, 2025, exemplified these principles, featuring a compelling matchup between North Mecklenburg and Hebron (GA) Christian.
The atmosphere surrounding the Beach Ball Classic is always electric, drawing fans and scouts alike to witness the future stars of basketball. Beyond the individual performances, these events significantly impact the local community, fostering a sense of shared pride and providing invaluable experiences for all involved. High school sports, especially on such a grand stage, teach lessons that extend far beyond the scoreboard, instilling the hard work and dedication required to succeed both on and off the court.
A Championship Battle in Myrtle Beach
The United Bank bracket championship game of the Beach Ball Classic took place on December 22, 2025, at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. This highly anticipated contest pitted North Mecklenburg against Hebron (GA) Christian in a clash that captured the competitive spirit of the tournament. The event underscored Myrtle Beach’s role as a key host for top-tier high school athletic events, bringing national attention to the local sports community. The Beach Ball Classic is renowned for featuring top high school girls basketball teams from across the United States, and it is held annually before and after Christmas in Myrtle Beach, SC.
North Mecklenburg’s Undefeated Run Ends
North Mecklenburg entered the championship game with an impressive 11-0 season record, showcasing a remarkable display of early-season dominance. Their journey to the final included a dramatic 56-55 overtime victory against Westside (SC) in the semifinals, a testament to their perseverance and teamwork. Prior to the championship, their only loss in 12 games this season occurred in the final against Hebron Christian. This undefeated streak demonstrated the team’s discipline, teamwork, and commitment to excellence throughout the early season, highlighting the rigorous training and cohesive strategy that defined their play.
Hebron Christian’s Dominant Performance
Hebron Christian, ranked nationally No. 3 by Maxpreps in the preseason poll, showcased why they are considered one of the top programs. They improved their season record to a perfect 10-0 after securing the championship victory. Hebron Christian earned their spot in the final with a semifinal win over Concord Academy. In the championship game, Hebron Christian established a significant lead, heading into the fourth quarter with a 39-23 advantage.
Key Game Statistics and Player Highlights
Hebron Christian ultimately defeated North Mecklenburg with a final score of 48-39. Key offensive contributions for Hebron Christian came from Alanna Beckham, who led the team with 14 points, and Nariah Nelson, who added 10 points. For North Mecklenburg, SaRuan Newton scored eight points, while Lenise Joseph contributed six points, which was below her average. Hebron Christian demonstrated efficient shooting throughout the contest, converting 47.1% of their attempts, while North Mecklenburg shot 27.5% from the floor, hitting 14 of 51 shots. Hebron Christian also held a significant 33-25 rebounding advantage. Despite the shooting challenges, North Mecklenburg showcased their defensive intensity, outscoring Hebron Christian 29-15 off turnovers, highlighting their hustle and ability to create opportunities from defensive pressure.
Building Character and Community Through Competition
The Beach Ball Classic offers an invaluable platform for young athletes to develop character, leadership skills, and personal responsibility through intense, high-stakes competition. Participating in such a prominent tournament fosters individual growth and provides significant exposure for players aspiring to collegiate careers. These events also bolster Myrtle Beach SC high school basketball, fostering community pride and offering local businesses opportunities for sponsorship and engagement. The enthusiastic fan turnout strengthens the bond between the community and its athletic programs, underscoring how sports contribute to a cohesive and spirited local identity. Such competitions cultivate a strong sense of purpose and discipline, essential traits for future success.
The championship game of the United Bank bracket at the Beach Ball Classic concluded an exciting tournament, with Hebron (GA) Christian emerging victorious over a strong North Mecklenburg team. Both teams displayed exceptional talent and commitment, embodying the spirit of high school athletics. This event continues to be a highlight for the South Carolina prep sports calendar, providing unforgettable moments and valuable lessons for all participants. We encourage our readers to continue supporting local athletic programs by attending games and celebrating the dedication of these young athletes. Stay tuned to HEREmyrtle beach.com for more coverage of Myrtle Beach high school sports and updates on our talented local teams.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the final score of the Beach Ball Classic United Bank bracket championship game?
- The final score was Hebron Christian 48, North Mecklenburg 39.
- When and where did the championship game take place?
- The championship game took place on December 22, 2025, in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
- What was North Mecklenburg’s record before the championship game?
- North Mecklenburg entered the championship game with an impressive 11-0 season record. Their loss in the final was their first in 12 games this season.
- What was Hebron Christian’s national ranking?
- Hebron Christian was ranked nationally No. 3 by Maxpreps in the preseason poll.
- Who were the leading scorers for Hebron Christian?
- Alanna Beckham led Hebron Christian with 14 points, and Nariah Nelson contributed 10 points.
- What was the shooting percentage for North Mecklenburg in the game?
- North Mecklenburg shot 27.5% from the floor, hitting 14 of 51 shots.
Key Features of the Championship Game
| Feature | Details | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Event | Beach Ball Classic, United Bank bracket championship | Nationwide |
| Date | December 22, 2025 | Nationwide |
| Location | Myrtle Beach, South Carolina | State-level |
| Winner | Hebron (GA) Christian | Nationwide |
| Runner-up | North Mecklenburg | State-level |
| Final Score | Hebron Christian 48, North Mecklenburg 39 | Nationwide |
| Hebron Christian’s Ranking | No. 3 nationally by Maxpreps (preseason) | Nationwide |
| North Mecklenburg’s Record (pre-final) | 11-0 (first loss in 12 games) | State-level |
| Hebron Christian’s Record (post-final) | 10-0 | Nationwide |
| Leading Scorer (Hebron Christian) | Alanna Beckham (14 points) | Nationwide |
| Leading Scorer (North Mecklenburg) | SaRuan Newton (8 points) | State-level |
Now Happening on X
- @GwinnettDaily (December 23, 2025): Hebron Christian’s girls basketball team defeated North Mecklenburg 48-39 to win the Championship Division of the Beach Ball Classic. View on X
- @BBCbasketball (December 22, 2025): Hebron Christian defeated North Mecklenburg 48-39 to claim the United Bank Division championship at the Beach Ball Classic, with MVP Alanna Beckham leading with 14 points and 6 rebounds. View on X
- @HebronGBB (December 22, 2025): Preview of the Beach Ball Classic final against North Mecklenburg at 2:45 p.m. at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center, available to watch live on BallerTV. View on X
- @BBCbasketball (December 21, 2025): Hebron Christian advanced to the Beach Ball Classic finals by defeating Concord Academy 49-43 and will face North Mecklenburg for the United Bank bracket title. View on X
- @757teamz (December 22, 2025): Deep Creek defeated Blythewood 54-46 at the Beach Ball Classic, with Sophya Webb scoring 19 points and Morgan Herbert adding 14 to secure their second win. View on X
- @NorthmeckWBB (December 21, 2025): North Mecklenburg edged Westside 56-55 in overtime to advance at the Beach Ball Classic. View on X
- @GwinnettDaily (December 21, 2025): Hebron Christian defeated Concord Academy 49-43 to advance to the Beach Ball Classic finals. View on X
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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.
