Archbishop Moeller (OH) vs Ridge View (SC)

Recap

Ridge View Holds Off Archbishop Moeller in Gritty Beach Ball Opener

MYRTLE BEACH, SC — In a game defined by defensive grit and timely execution, Ridge View (6-5) outlasted Archbishop Moeller (6-1) for a 49-40 victory in the opening round of the 2024 Beach Ball Classic’s Traditional Division.

Ridge View’s Korie Corbett was the engine that powered the Blazers, scoring a game-high 17 points on 8-of-14 shooting while grabbing four rebounds. Corbett’s ability to navigate traffic in the paint was complemented by a strong bench effort that chipped in 22 points. JT Vankallen provided a crucial spark off the bench with seven points, including a physical putback that electrified the crowd late in the second half.

For Archbishop Moeller, Alex Kazanecki was the standout performer, posting a double-double with 16 points and seven rebounds. Despite Kazanecki’s efforts, the Crusaders were plagued by turnovers (23 total) and an off night from beyond the arc, hitting just 1-of-7 three-point attempts.

The first half saw the teams locked in a defensive struggle, with Ridge View holding a narrow 14-13 edge at halftime. Both teams leaned on their interior scoring, combining for 58 points in the paint. Moeller relied on Kazanecki’s ability to score in traffic, while Ridge View countered with balanced scoring and fast-break opportunities.

Ridge View began to pull away in the third quarter, building a 13-point lead early in the fourth thanks to quick hands on defense and a more aggressive transition game. The Blazers scored 12 fast-break points compared to just two for the Crusaders, turning turnovers into easy buckets.

Moeller clawed back late, cutting the deficit to six behind a Kazanecki layup and two free throws from Brady Franz, but Ridge View’s defense held firm. The Blazers forced six fourth-quarter turnovers, sealing the win with strong composure at the free-throw line.

“We knew we had to control the tempo and make them play our game,” said Ridge View head coach Marcus Taylor. “Corbett was fantastic tonight, and our bench stepped up when we needed them most.”

For Moeller, the loss serves as a wake-up call. “We didn’t take care of the ball,” head coach Doug Huff said. “When you’re coughing it up 23 times against a team like Ridge View, you’re not going to win many games.”

Ridge View advances to the second round, carrying momentum from a well-rounded team performance. Archbishop Moeller will look to regroup in the consolation bracket, hoping to recapture the form that carried them to a strong start to the season.

Box Score