Recap

North Mecklenburg Secures 5th Place with Commanding Win Over Miami Senior

MYRTLE BEACH, SC — North Mecklenburg (8-1) wrapped up the 2024 Beach Ball Classic with a decisive 46-30 victory over Miami Senior (8-4) in the 5th place game of the United Bank Championship Division on Saturday morning.

Lenise Joseph dominated for North Mecklenburg, pouring in 27 points on 12-of-23 shooting while adding five rebounds and four steals. Her relentless scoring effort kept the Vikings in control throughout the game. Zion Pimentel contributed with a well-rounded performance, scoring four points, dishing out seven assists, and recording seven steals.

The Vikings set the tone early, holding Miami Senior scoreless in the first quarter while jumping out to a 7-0 lead. Although Miami rallied to score 15 points in the second quarter, they struggled offensively in the second half, managing just 15 points across the final two quarters.

Miami Senior was led by Alexie Nicolas, who scored eight points, including a three-pointer, but also committed five turnovers under heavy defensive pressure. Sydney Wilson added seven points and three assists but turned the ball over nine times as the Stingrays struggled against North Mecklenburg’s swarming defense.

North Mecklenburg’s efficient shooting (44.2%) and ball movement proved decisive, while their defense forced Miami into 31 turnovers. The Vikings also dominated in transition, capitalizing on fast breaks to keep the Stingrays off balance.

The Stingrays, despite their struggles, found bright spots in Karla Stiven’s four points and two steals off the bench. However, their 31% shooting from the field and inability to break North Mecklenburg’s press defense proved costly.

With the win, North Mecklenburg finishes the tournament on a high note, showcasing their defensive tenacity and Joseph’s offensive firepower. Miami Senior, while falling short in this contest, demonstrated resilience throughout the tournament, but turnovers ultimately defined their struggles in the final game.

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