Myrtle Beach Celebrates Athletic Achievements and Economic Growth

Myrtle Beach, SC, December 23, 2025

Collegiate athletics in Myrtle Beach and across South Carolina showcase competitive spirit and academic excellence as recent events highlight the region’s vibrant sports scene. The Myrtle Beach Bowl featured a significant win for Western Michigan, boosting local tourism and economic activity. The University of South Carolina and Coastal Carolina University also continue to excel in basketball, demonstrating their commitment to both athletic success and academic achievement. This synergy between sports and economic growth underscores the region’s importance in the collegiate athletics landscape.

Myrtle Beach, SC — Collegiate athletics in the Myrtle Beach area and across South Carolina are demonstrating a powerful combination of competitive spirit, academic excellence, and significant economic impact as 2025 draws to a close and 2026 approaches. Recent victories and upcoming events highlight the region’s dynamic sports scene, driven by both public and private initiative.

The past few days have been particularly noteworthy, with Western Michigan University securing a dominant win in the Myrtle Beach Bowl, further solidifying the Grand Strand’s reputation as a premier destination for postseason college football. Meanwhile, the University of South Carolina’s basketball program is showcasing robust performance, reflecting a dedication to both on-court success and academic achievement. Coastal Carolina University also continues to contribute to the local athletic landscape with recent basketball triumphs and a strong lineup of future events.

Myrtle Beach Bowl Ignites Local Economy

Western Michigan’s Triumph and Grand Strand Benefits

The 6th annual Myrtle Beach Bowl, presented by Engine, wrapped up on December 19, 2025, at Brooks Stadium on the Coastal Carolina University campus, with Western Michigan University decisively defeating Kennesaw State University 41-6. Redshirt junior running back Jalen Buckley was named the Bowl’s MVP, rushing for 174 yards and a touchdown, including a 65-yard score on the first play from scrimmage. This victory marked a historic season for the Broncos, as they became the first team in program history to win both a conference championship and a bowl game, finishing with a 10-4 record.

The Bowl game, which featured two conference champions—Western Michigan as the Mid-American Conference champion and Kennesaw State representing Conference USA—brought a significant influx of visitors, teams, bands, and cheer squads to the Grand Strand. This full week of festivities, broadcast nationally on ESPN, not only showcased Myrtle Beach as a fan-friendly holiday destination but also delivered substantial economic and community impact during the traditionally slower winter season. Sports tourism, generally, has been a significant driver for the local economy, with the City of Myrtle Beach generating over $174 million in direct spending during the 2023 calendar year. Events like the Myrtle Beach Bowl exemplify how strategic investments in sports infrastructure and event hosting foster economic growth and community engagement.

University of South Carolina Athletics: Academic and Athletic Prowess

Gamecocks Charge to Victory and Academic Honors

In Columbia, the University of South Carolina men’s basketball team secured a decisive 95-70 victory over South Carolina State on Monday, December 22, 2025. This triumph, characterized by a balanced effort with Myles Stute and Mike Sharavjamts each scoring 15 points, highlighted the Gamecocks’ disciplined play and teamwork. The team’s commitment extends beyond the court, with the university emphasizing academic and athletic excellence.

Furthermore, USC Upstate student-athletes continue to set new benchmarks in academic achievement, posting a record-breaking cumulative, department-wide grade point average of 3.36 in the fall semester. This marks the third consecutive term with a GPA greater than 3.30, demonstrating a robust culture of intellectual and athletic development. These achievements underscore the value of personal perseverance and responsible growth within collegiate programs across the state.

Coastal Carolina’s Expanding Athletic Footprint

Chanticleers and Regional Sports Hub Development

Coastal Carolina University, located in Conway just minutes from Myrtle Beach, continues to be a pivotal player in the regional sports scene. The university’s men’s basketball team recently powered past St. Joe’s with a 68-62 victory on December 22, 2025. The Chanticleers’ athletic programs are integral to challenging students to lead boldly and inspiring them to make a difference.

Looking ahead, Coastal Carolina’s baseball team is set to open its quest for an NCAA Men’s College World Series Championship on June 9, 2025, in Conway, SC. The university also regularly hosts significant events such as the Alan Connie Shamrock Invitational for Track and Field. The upcoming Spirit Sports – Myrtle Beach Nationals for DI/DII cheer and dance competitions, scheduled for March 28-29, 2026, in Myrtle Beach, SC, further exemplifies the area’s robust calendar of athletic events. These events, supported by local facilities like the Myrtle Beach Sports Center, which celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2025 and has generated an astounding $250 million in economic impact over the past decade, highlight the success of private initiative and community efforts in building a thriving sports economy.

The Broader Impact on South Carolina’s Athletic Scene

Private Investment and Community Self-Reliance

The success witnessed in Myrtle Beach and surrounding areas reflects a broader trend of growth in South Carolina’s athletic and economic landscape. The sustained commitment from universities, coupled with private investment and robust community support, creates a fertile ground for sports success. This self-reliance and entrepreneurial spirit are evident in the diverse range of sporting events hosted, from collegiate bowls to national cheer and dance competitions, drawing participants and spectators alike and bolstering local businesses. The emphasis on competition and achievement, both on the field and in the classroom, cultivates well-rounded individuals and contributes to the overall strength of the state.

Conclusion

The recent athletic achievements and upcoming events in Myrtle Beach, SC, and across the state underscore the significant role college and university sports play in fostering community strength and driving economic activity. From Western Michigan’s Myrtle Beach Bowl triumph to the University of South Carolina’s basketball victories and Coastal Carolina’s ongoing contributions, the region’s dedication to sports excellence is clear. We encourage all residents to support our local college athletics, attend games, and engage with these programs that bring pride and prosperity to our communities. Your continued involvement directly fuels the success and responsible growth of sports in the Grand Strand and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Western Michigan University win the Myrtle Beach Bowl?

Western Michigan University won the Myrtle Beach Bowl on December 19, 2025.

What was the score of the 2025 Myrtle Beach Bowl?

Western Michigan University defeated Kennesaw State University with a score of 41-6 in the 2025 Myrtle Beach Bowl.

Who was named MVP of the 2025 Myrtle Beach Bowl?

Redshirt junior running back Jalen Buckley of Western Michigan University was named the MVP of the 2025 Myrtle Beach Bowl.

When did the University of South Carolina men’s basketball team defeat South Carolina State?

The University of South Carolina men’s basketball team defeated South Carolina State on Monday, December 22, 2025.

What was the score of the South Carolina men’s basketball game against South Carolina State?

The University of South Carolina men’s basketball team won against South Carolina State with a score of 95-70.

What is Coastal Carolina University’s location?

Coastal Carolina University is located in Conway, SC, just minutes from Myrtle Beach.

When is the Spirit Sports – Myrtle Beach Nationals competition scheduled?

The Spirit Sports – Myrtle Beach Nationals for DI/DII cheer and dance competitions are scheduled for March 28-29, 2026. [cite: Spirit Sports | Varsity All Star Cheer & Dance Competitions]

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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.