The 44th Annual Beach Ball Classic Basketball Tournament is bringing holiday cheer to Myrtle Beach as it kicked off its 2024 boys tournament on December 27 at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center. This event, which has been part of the local basketball scene since 1981, has become synonymous with the holiday season, drawing fans and participants eager for its festive atmosphere and competitive spirit.
Chad Smith, president of the Beach Ball Classic, expressed his excitement about the tournament's return, noting how it feels like one big family gathering each year. "It’s always a Christmas tradition here. A lot of the same people are here every year, and Beach Ball is kind of just one big family. You see people you don’t see but one time a year. There’s a gentleman from Kentucky who I see for four days and I don’t see him again until next year. It’s just a cool time for people to come out, be with each other, see each other, and enjoy some good basketball,” he said.
This year's tournament features 16 boys teams split across two brackets: the traditional teams bracket and the prep teams bracket. Local powerhouse Socastee, which is the host school, kicked off its campaign by facing off against Bishop O’Connell of Virginia, the reigning champions. Unfortunately for the Braves, their tournament got off to a rocky start, as they suffered a 72-30 defeat.
Socastee's head coach, Alvin Green, underscored the importance of facing high-caliber teams, stating, “We approach this tournament to get mentally and physically prepared for region play, which begins on January 7 against Carolina Forest. Our goal is to get incrementally stronger with each game.” Green praised his senior standout, Bryson Sams, who led the Braves with 19 points and 11 rebounds. “Honestly, it’s his attitude. He encourages his teammates to be the best they can be, and he’s so selfless. It’s never been about him; it’s always about the team,” Green added, emphasizing Sams’ leadership.
Socastee wasn't the only local team participating. Myrtle Beach Seahawks similarly aimed to impress, though they too faced challenges, falling to St. John's from Washington, D.C. by 81-30. Seahawks’ top scorer James Watson managed to score 11 points, reflecting the hurdles local teams face against nationally ranked opponents.
Beyond the court, the Beach Ball Classic also emphasizes community involvement, providing opportunities for local organizations like the Boys and Girls Club of the Grand Strand. Members from the club volunteered at the tournament, helping with hospitality services. Ryan Grace, executive director of the Boys and Girls Club, shared how pivotal this event is for local youth. "Honestly, this is one of the best opportunities they are going to get to have,” Grace stated. “They get to see all the teams from across the country and experience pride for their community. This is their home, and they feel connected to it.”
The tournament continues to highlight not only the excitement of basketball but also the spirit of togetherness among the community. The action-packed weekend will conclude on December 30 with the championship games, as well as the return of popular events like the dunk and three-point shooting contest scheduled for Sunday evening.
For many, the Beach Ball Classic is not just about the games; it's about tradition. Families gather, friends reconnect, and the spirit of the holidays shines bright through the love of basketball. With its blend of festive engagement, quality competition, and community participation, the Beach Ball Classic remains a cherished highlight of the Myrtle Beach holiday season.
Prior to this boys tournament, the Beach Ball Classic also hosted the girls tournament before Christmas, featuring competitive action where the Socastee girls team put forth a strong performance, reaching the championship before falling to Graves County from Kentucky.
