Whiteville Boys Basketball Team Secures Fifth Place Finish

Whiteville, NC, December 27, 2025

The Whiteville Boys basketball team showed remarkable resilience and teamwork at the Shootout by the Sea tournament, finishing in fifth place. Despite an initial setback against Cape Fear Academy, they rallied with significant victories, demonstrating exceptional defensive skills and community support. The tournament highlighted the athletes’ growth and leadership while showcasing the importance of high school sports in fostering character and community spirit. Caleb McLean notably earned a spot on the All-Tournament team, representing the commitment and hard work of the Wolfpack.

Whiteville, NC – The Whiteville Boys basketball team recently demonstrated their competitive spirit and unwavering discipline, securing a respectable fifth-place finish at the highly anticipated Shootout by the Sea tournament. This event, held from December 20-23 at North Myrtle Beach High School, SC, drew talented teams from across the region, providing a significant platform for young athletes to showcase their skills and develop invaluable character. For the Whiteville Wolfpack, their performance was a testament to the power of teamwork and strategic adjustments, underscoring the enduring value of hard work and sportsmanship in the arena of high school athletics. These tournaments are more than just games; they are crucibles where future leaders are forged, and community pride is strengthened.

High school sports serve as a vital cornerstone in the fabric of communities like Myrtle Beach and Whiteville, offering students opportunities for personal growth, leadership development, and physical excellence. The commitment shown by these young athletes, supported by dedicated coaches and an engaged community, highlights the positive impact of competitive sports. The Shootout by the Sea, a prominent regional event, provides a glimpse into the potential of these athletes and the vibrant future of South Carolina prep basketball.

Resilience After an Opening Challenge

The Whiteville Wolfpack’s journey at the Shootout by the Sea began with an early test of their resolve. In their first game on Saturday, December 20, they faced Cape Fear Academy (Wilmington), initially jumping to a 10-0 lead in the first quarter. Despite this strong start, Whiteville ultimately experienced a 44-36 loss to the Hurricanes, with Cape Fear tying the game at 18-18 by halftime. Even in this initial setback, the team showed flashes of individual effort, with Caleb McLean notably leading the Wolfpack with 10 rebounds. This early challenge, rather than deterring the team, seemed to fuel their determination to perform stronger in subsequent contests, exemplifying personal responsibility and the drive to improve.

Dominating the Court: Key Victories

Undeterred by their opening game, Whiteville rallied with remarkable performances in their next two matchups. On Monday, December 22, the Wolfpack showcased a stifling defense that proved pivotal in their 55-45 victory over Southeastern Academy. The team effectively limited Southeastern Academy to just four points in the first quarter and 11 points by halftime, demonstrating exceptional defensive discipline and teamwork. Offensive highlights included Ty’lae Rose, who led the team with 21 points, sinking five 3-pointers, and Caleb McLean, who once again contributed significantly with 10 points and 10 rebounds. This decisive win underlined the team’s ability to adapt and execute their game plan under pressure.

A Resounding Finish Against the Host

Whiteville’s momentum continued into their final contest, where they faced the host team, North Myrtle Beach (SC), on Tuesday afternoon, December 23. Overcoming an early 10-point deficit, the Wolfpack secured a 53-47 victory. Their strong defense was a critical factor, holding the Chiefs to only three points in the third quarter after trailing by six at halftime. Corey Faison led the team in this crucial win with 15 points and five steals, while Caleb McLean, who earned a spot on the All-Tournament team, added eight points and seven rebounds. This comeback win against a local rival underscored the team’s mental fortitude and tactical prowess, culminating in their fifth-place finish.

Building Character and Community Bonds

The Whiteville Boys’ journey at the Shootout by the Sea exemplifies how competitive sports build character, leadership, and a sense of shared purpose. Their ability to bounce back from an initial loss, adjust their strategies, and ultimately secure a strong finish speaks volumes about their resilience and collective drive. Events like these foster a sense of pride not just within the school but throughout the wider community, illustrating the power of sports to unite and inspire. The dedication of these athletes, the strategic guidance of their coaches, and the fervent support from fans all contribute to a thriving environment where young individuals can learn invaluable life lessons alongside athletic skills.

Opportunity and Engagement in High School Sports

High school athletic programs, supported by community engagement, create significant opportunities for student-athletes. Tournaments like the Shootout by the Sea not only provide competitive experience but also expose players to different styles of play and competition levels, preparing them for future challenges. Local sponsorships and strong fan attendance further bolster these programs, demonstrating a collective investment in youth development and school pride. These opportunities extend beyond the court, nurturing leadership qualities, fostering personal responsibility, and enhancing the overall educational experience for students in Whiteville and other communities involved in South Carolina prep sports.

A Strong Showing, A Promising Future

The Whiteville Boys basketball team’s fifth-place finish at the Shootout by the Sea is a commendable achievement that reflects their dedication, teamwork, and ability to perform under pressure. Their journey through the tournament, marked by strategic adjustments and spirited play, serves as an inspiring example for aspiring athletes and a source of pride for the Whiteville community. As the season progresses, fans are encouraged to continue supporting the Wolfpack and other local high school teams. Follow HEREmyrtlebeach.com for more engaging coverage of South Carolina prep sports, celebrating the hard work, discipline, and success of our region’s talented student-athletes.

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Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH

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