Myrtle Beach, SC — The fifth-place game in the 2024 Beach Ball Classic Traditional Division was a grinder, a game where every point had to be earned. Archbishop Moeller (OH) brought a disciplined approach on both ends of the floor, pulling away late to secure a 50-36 win over Windermere Prep (FL).
For the Crusaders, it was a textbook example of persistence paying off. They weathered Windermere’s scrappy start and leaned on superior rebounding and second-chance opportunities to dictate the game. Cooper McCutchan led the charge, posting a double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds, dominating the paint and setting the tone for Moeller’s gritty performance.
The first half was a slog, with both teams struggling to find offensive rhythm. Moeller clung to a narrow 17-15 lead at halftime, thanks largely to its defense. Windermere, meanwhile, struggled to convert open looks, shooting just 27.3% from the field in the first half.
Still, Windermere’s Samuel Shoptaw gave the Lakers hope, scoring 15 points and pulling down six rebounds. His three triples kept Windermere within striking distance as the teams traded the lead 14 times in the first three quarters.
But the fourth quarter was all Moeller. The Crusaders’ defense tightened the screws, holding Windermere to just seven points in the final frame. Zach Green hit a crucial three-pointer to spark a 10-0 run, while Alex Kazanecki drained three from deep en route to an 11-point, 12-rebound performance.
That control was evident in the second-chance points column, where Moeller outscored Windermere 17-0. And while Windermere fought hard, their inability to capitalize on opportunities proved costly. Brandon Bass struggled mightily, shooting just 1-of-11 from the field despite going 5-of-6 at the free-throw line to finish with seven points.
Key Stats:
- Archbishop Moeller (OH):
- Cooper McCutchan: 12 points, 11 rebounds
- Alex Kazanecki: 11 points, 12 rebounds, 3 three-pointers
- Zach Green: 9 points, 2 assists
- Windermere Prep (FL):
- Samuel Shoptaw: 15 points, 6 rebounds
- Brandon Bass: 7 points, 5 rebounds
- Isaiah Gillard: 8 points, 2 rebounds
Turning Point:
Midway through the fourth quarter, Moeller’s Zach Green drilled a three-pointer to stretch the lead to nine. The Crusaders never looked back, dominating the boards and shutting down Windermere’s offense down the stretch.
What’s Next:
With the win, Archbishop Moeller (8-1) leaves Myrtle Beach on a high note, showcasing a style of play that could carry them deep into the postseason. Windermere Prep (8-7) heads home with plenty of lessons learned and a resolve to improve their offensive efficiency in upcoming games.
In a game where style took a backseat to substance, Archbishop Moeller proved they could do the dirty work and still come out on top.
(Photos By: Kyd B. Wilde | IG: KBWtheory)
