MYRTLE BEACH, SC — The Beach Ball Classic showcased its annual spectacle of high-flying jams and long-range sharpshooting on Sunday night, delivering unforgettable moments in the Slam Dunk and 3-Point Contests. Tournament director Chad Smith summed it up best: “This is a fan favorite every year, and tonight was no exception.”
Local Star Soars to Slam Dunk Glory
The hometown crowd erupted as Julian Brown of the Myrtle Beach Seahawks electrified the arena, taking home the Slam Dunk Contest crown with a display of
athleticism and creativity. Brown capped his winning performance with a jaw-dropping between-the-legs reverse dunk that brought fans to their feet and earned perfect scores from the judges.
“I just wanted to put on a show for the people who’ve supported me all year,” Brown said. “To win this here, in front of my city, is a dream come true.”
Brown’s competitors included some of the most explosive dunkers in the tournament, but his combination of flair, power, and precision proved too much to beat.
Richardson’s Hot Hand Rules the Arc
While Brown owned the rim, Great
Crossing’s Gage Richardson dominated from beyond the arc to claim the 3-Point Contest title. Richardson drained an incredible 12 3-point shots in the final round to edge out the competition.
“When I got into rhythm, it felt like the hoop was as big as the ocean,” Richardson said. “I just stayed focused, and the shots kept falling.”
The sharpshooter credited his preparation and team support for the win. “My teammates were hyping me up, and that energy carried me through,” he added.
A Night to Remember
The night wasn’t just about the winners—it was about the spectacle. Fans young and old filled the Myrtle Beach Convention Center with excitement, cheering every thunderous dunk and every long-range make.
“This event brings the community together,” said Smith. “It’s amazing to see the crowd so engaged and the players putting on a show.”
Looking Ahead
As the Beach Ball Classic heads into its final rounds, the energy from Sunday’s contests will undoubtedly carry into the championship games. For now, Julian Brown and Gage Richardson stand as the stars of an unforgettable evening.
“This is what the Beach Ball Classic is all about—talent, excitement, and memories that last a lifetime,” Smith said.
And for those in attendance, it’s safe to say those memories were made with every slam and swish.
(Photos By: Kyd B. Wilde | IG: KBWtheory)
