MYRTLE BEACH, SC — Winter Haven (8-1) showcased a dominant performance to defeat North Mecklenburg (6-1) with a 44-29 victory in the opening round of the 2024 Beach Ball Classic Holiday Invitational at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center.
The Winter Haven Blue Devils set the tone early, taking a 17-9 lead after the first quarter and never relinquishing control. Led by Serenity Hardy’s 18 points, including three three-pointers, Winter Haven’s balanced attack proved too much for the Vikings. Amaya Shaw added 11 points and nine rebounds, while Alyse Mercredi contributed six points and five rebounds.
North Mecklenburg struggled offensively, shooting just 28.3% from the field. Despite a strong effort from Lenise Joseph, who scored 16 points and grabbed seven rebounds, turnovers plagued the Vikings, who gave up the ball 34 times, leading to 26 points for Winter Haven.
Winter Haven’s defense was relentless, tallying 19 steals and limiting North Mecklenburg to just six points in the final quarter. The Blue Devils also capitalized on their trips to the free-throw line, converting 11 of 18 attempts compared to the Vikings’ 3-for-9 showing.
The Blue Devils advance to the next round of the United Bank Championship Division, where they’ll face tougher competition. North Mecklenburg moves to the consolation bracket, hoping to bounce back after their first loss of the season.
