Myrtle Beach, SC – December 29, 2023 – In a thrilling semifinal matchup of the 2023 Beach Ball Classic, Great Crossing (KY) narrowly defeated Lexington (SC) with a final score of 63-62 at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center. The intense game saw Great Crossing maintain their unbeaten streak, moving to a 12-0 record.
Vince Dawson III led Great Crossing with an impressive 22 points, while Gage Richardson added 17 points, including five 3-pointers. Malachi Moreno contributed significantly with 6 points and a remarkable 14 rebounds. The team displayed efficient shooting with a 53.2% field goal percentage and a solid performance from beyond the arc.
Lexington’s Cameron Scott was the standout player with 23 points, followed closely by Jaxon Prunty, who scored 18 points and collected 7 rebounds. Lexington showed resilience in the second half, particularly in the fourth quarter, where they outscored Great Crossing 27-14.
The game was closely contested, with Great Crossing holding the lead for 29:29 minutes. Lexington briefly led in the first quarter but couldn’t maintain the advantage. Great Crossing’s largest lead was 17 points in the fourth quarter, which Lexington nearly overcame in a spirited comeback.
Key to Great Crossing’s victory were their 26 points in the paint and 7 points off turnovers. Lexington fought hard, capitalizing on turnovers to score 25 points and adding 15 second-chance points. Both teams showed great defensive prowess, with Great Crossing registering 6 blocks and Lexington 10 steals.
Officials Dan Paugh, Taylor Poth, and Chris Martin oversaw the game, which was marked by high energy and competitive spirit from both teams.
Great Crossing now advances to the final of the Beach Ball Classic Traditional Bracket Championship, facing their next challenge with confidence and an unbeaten record.
[Source: Official Basketball Box Score]
