Myrtle Beach, SC, January 2, 2026
In a thrilling conclusion to the Beach Ball Classic, Wisconsin Lutheran High School claimed the championship title with a nail-biting buzzer-beater by Zavier Zens. The game against North Crowley High School showcased the dedication and skill of young athletes on a national stage. With a final score of 57-54, Zens’ performance underscored the importance of teamwork and perseverance in high school sports, making this memorable event a highlight for the community of Myrtle Beach.
Myrtle Beach, SC
Zens’ Buzzer-Beater Crowns Wisconsin Lutheran Beach Ball Classic Champs
The Grand Strand witnessed an unforgettable moment in high school basketball history as Wisconsin Lutheran High School secured the coveted Beach Ball Classic title with a dramatic buzzer-beating shot. This thrilling championship game showcased the dedication, skill, and competitive spirit that define elite prep athletics.
The annual Beach Ball Classic, a premier national high school basketball tournament held right here in Myrtle Beach, SC, consistently brings together some of the nation’s most talented young athletes and dedicated coaching staffs. Beyond the thrilling on-court action, the tournament fosters a sense of community, drawing fans from across the country and providing a significant boost to local businesses. It’s an event that truly celebrates the spirit of competition and the invaluable lessons learned through sports.
This year’s final epitomized the essence of high school sports: intense competition, unwavering teamwork, and individual brilliance under pressure. Spectators were treated to a contest where every possession mattered, culminating in a finish that will be talked about for years to come. Such events highlight how sports build character, emphasizing discipline and personal responsibility on a national stage.
A National Showdown on the Grand Strand
The championship game on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, pitted No. 15 Wisconsin Lutheran High School from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, against a formidable opponent, North Crowley High School from Fort Worth, Texas. Both teams demonstrated exceptional talent and strategic play throughout the tournament, earning their spots in the final. The presence of nationally ranked teams like Wisconsin Lutheran elevates the prestige of the Beach Ball Classic and reinforces Myrtle Beach’s standing as a hub for top-tier high school sports events.
Zens Delivers the Decisive Blow
The contest was a hard-fought battle, with both teams exchanging blows and neither able to establish a significant lead. As the clock wound down, the tension in the arena was palpable. It was Wisconsin Lutheran’s Zavier Zens who etched his name into the tournament’s history books. With the score tied and mere seconds remaining, Zens delivered a stunning buzzer-beater, securing a dramatic 57-54 victory for Wisconsin Lutheran. This defining moment showcased the kind of composure and clutch performance that coaches strive to instill in their athletes, underscoring the importance of discipline and mental fortitude in high-pressure situations.
Zens’ Stellar Performance
While the game-winning shot captured the headlines, Zavier Zens’ overall performance throughout the championship was equally remarkable. He led all scorers with a game-high 26 points, demonstrating his skill, athleticism, and dedication to his team’s success. His ability to perform at such a high level in a championship environment is a testament to his hard work and commitment to personal growth. Such standout individual efforts often inspire younger athletes in Myrtle Beach SC high school basketball programs to pursue excellence.
The Road to the Championship
Both Wisconsin Lutheran and North Crowley navigated a challenging bracket in the Beach Ball Classic, facing tough competition from across the nation. Their journeys to the final were paved with victories that highlighted their teamwork and strategic execution. The tournament structure, designed to test the limits of each team, promotes discipline and resilience, essential qualities for success both on and off the court. The support from local sponsors and the enthusiastic fan engagement further enhanced the tournament experience, strengthening community identity around this significant South Carolina prep sports event.
Community Impact and Future Opportunities
The Beach Ball Classic is more than just a basketball tournament; it’s a vital part of the Myrtle Beach community’s annual calendar. Hosting such a prestigious event brings national attention to the area, encourages tourism, and provides market-driven opportunities for local businesses. Restaurants, hotels, and various other services benefit from the influx of teams, coaches, families, and fans. Furthermore, the tournament instills a sense of local pride and offers local students and aspiring athletes the chance to witness top-tier competition firsthand. This exposure reinforces the value of athletic programs in developing character and leadership skills, showing the direct link between sports and opportunity. Engaging with events like the Beach Ball Classic strengthens the bond between high schools and the broader community.
Conclusion: A Legacy Forged in Myrtle Beach
The 2025 Beach Ball Classic concluded with a memorable championship victory for Wisconsin Lutheran, highlighted by Zavier Zens’ incredible buzzer-beater. This event once again demonstrated the power of competition, teamwork, and individual effort in achieving success. It underscored the valuable lessons of discipline and perseverance that high school sports impart. We encourage all our readers to continue supporting Myrtle Beach SC high school football, basketball, and all other athletic programs. Your presence at local games and support for these young athletes not only boosts morale but also invests in the future leaders of our community. Stay tuned to HEREmyrtlebeach.com for more stories celebrating the spirit of sports and the achievements of our local and visiting athletic stars!
Frequently Asked Questions
What team won the 2025 Beach Ball Classic?
Wisconsin Lutheran High School from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, won the 2025 Beach Ball Classic.
What was the final score of the championship game?
Wisconsin Lutheran defeated North Crowley 57-54 in the championship game.
Who scored the game-winning shot for Wisconsin Lutheran?
Zavier Zens scored the buzzer-beater for Wisconsin Lutheran to win the game.
How many points did Zavier Zens score in the championship game?
Zavier Zens scored a game-high 26 points in the championship game.
When did the 2025 Beach Ball Classic championship game take place?
The championship game took place on Tuesday, December 30, 2025.
What ranking did Wisconsin Lutheran High School hold nationally?
Wisconsin Lutheran High School was ranked No. 15 nationally.
Key Features of the 2025 Beach Ball Classic Championship
| Feature | Detail | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Winning Team | Wisconsin Lutheran High School | Nationwide |
| Runner-up Team | North Crowley High School | Nationwide |
| Final Score | Wisconsin Lutheran 57 – North Crowley 54 | Nationwide |
| Game-Winning Play | Zavier Zens buzzer-beater | Nationwide |
| Top Scorer (Championship) | Zavier Zens (26 points) | Nationwide |
| Date of Championship Game | Tuesday, December 30, 2025 | Nationwide |
| Wisconsin Lutheran Ranking | No. 15 | Nationwide |
Now Happening on X
- @WiscoBB (December 31, 2025): Wisconsin Lutheran celebrates their Beach Ball Classic championship win with Zavier Zens leading the team with 26 points, alongside strong contributions from teammates in a hard-fought final in Myrtle Beach. View on X
- @BeachBallClassic (December 29, 2025): Father Judge defeats Myrtle Beach 76-29 in the consolation bracket, with Rocco Westfield scoring 16 points to lead the win and advance to the 5th place game. View on X
- @JoeWedra (December 28, 2025): Wisconsin Lutheran dominates Myrtle Beach 77-33 in a Beach Ball Classic matchup. View on X
- @fjhoops (December 30, 2025): Father Judge prepares to face Dorman HS from SC in the Beach Ball Classic at noon in Myrtle Beach, wrapping up their tournament run. View on X
- @fjhoops (December 29, 2025): Live update from the Beach Ball Classic shows Father Judge leading Myrtle Beach HS 56-23 at the end of the third quarter. View on X
- @fjhoops (December 29, 2025): Early game update at the Beach Ball Classic has Father Judge ahead of Myrtle Beach HS 24-3 after the first quarter. View on X
- @fjhoops (December 27, 2025): The Crusaders (Father Judge) head to Myrtle Beach for the Beach Ball Classic, facing George Rogers Clark from KY at 8:45 PM. View on X
- @HitTheBIGSH0TS (December 29, 2025): Myrtle Beach and Socastee high school teams drop their opening games on the first day of the 2025 Beach Ball Classic. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Local Initiative Enhances North Myrtle Beach’s Cultural Scene
Chiefs Show Resilience at Shootout by the Sea Tournament
Wisconsin Lutheran Secures Victory at Beach Ball Classic
Unlocking Community Vibrancy: Jukebox Bingo in Myrtle Beach
Bulldogs Secure Victory in Independence Bowl Comeback
Chanticleer Women’s Basketball Begins New Year with Home Games
Chanticleer Junior Named Top Player in Sun Belt Conference
Noon Year’s Eve Celebration at LuLu’s in North Myrtle Beach
Golf Enthusiasts Unwind in Myrtle Beach This Winter
Chanticleers Dominate Columbia College in Non-Conference Victory
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.
