South Carolina Low Country Basketball Showcase: Rising Stars Shine and Teams Impress in The Spotlight

The Low Country Showcase delivered standout performances, featuring MVP showings from Bryce Ward, Jake Thomas, and Tamiya Spillers, while boosting under-recruited talent in the region
Jake Thomas scored 16 points and was the MVP of Oceanside Collegiate's 57-42 win over Cane Bay at the Low Country Showcase.
Jake Thomas scored 16 points and was the MVP of Oceanside Collegiate's 57-42 win over Cane Bay at the Low Country Showcase. / Jake Thomas Instagram

The Low Country Showcase, hosted by the LowCountry DreamMakers, delivered a weekend of high-level basketball action, showcasing the depth of talent across the South Carolina Lowcountry.

Organized by Dr. Charmaine Palmer-Roberts and Sedric Weber, the event provided players with an invaluable platform to display their skills and gain exposure. Weber, a standout from the College of Charleston, was on-site all day, ensuring the tournament ran smoothly. Known for his dedication to Lowcountry basketball, Weber’s heart and vision for bringing greater exposure to the area’s under-recruited athletes were evident throughout the event.

Here is rundown on the action and the event's top performers.

Oceanside Collegiate Academy 57, Cane Bay 42

MVP: Jake Thomas (Oceanside) – 16 points

Oceanside Collegiate Academy, led by Coach Quinton Hollis, has firmly established itself as one of the top programs in the region. Known for their unselfish play and strong team culture, the Landsharks executed a disciplined performance against Cane Bay. Jake Thomas, a 6’6” junior forward, delivered 16 points, further solidifying his place as one of the Lowcountry’s most versatile players. Oceanside’s recent win over Summerville highlights their ability to compete with top-tier teams.

Cane Bay, under Head Coach Shawn McKeen, continues to emerge as a rising program. The Cobras showed promise with a notable win over Summerville, demonstrating their potential to challenge some of the area’s better teams as they build momentum this season.

First Baptist 63, Goose Creek 53

MVP: Ava Rush (First Baptist) – 16 points

In a tightly contested game, First Baptist edged out Goose Creek behind a standout performance from Ava Rush, who finished with 16 points. Rush’s ability to control the game and deliver in critical moments was pivotal to the Hurricanes’ success.

Goose Creek, known for their athleticism and aggressive play, competed well but fell short against First Baptist’s composed effort. The Gators remain a strong contender in the area and continue to develop as the season progresses.

Porter-Gaud 72, Bethune-Bowman 51

MVP: Banks Butler (Porter-Gaud) – 19 points

Porter-Gaud’s offense was firing on all cylinders in their win over Bethune-Bowman. Banks Butler, a sharpshooting guard, led the way with 19 points, demonstrating his scoring efficiency and ability to control the game. Porter-Gaud’s disciplined system and deep roster make them one of the most consistent programs in the Lowcountry.

Bethune-Bowman showed flashes of athleticism but struggled to keep pace with Porter-Gaud’s well-executed offense. The Mohawks continue to compete hard and are focusing on building greater consistency.

Stall 63, Bethune-Bowman 53

MVP: Tamiya Spillers (Stall) – 18 points

Tamiya Spillers delivered a standout performance for Stall, scoring 18 points and showcasing her ability to attack defenses with precision. Spillers’ dynamic play on both ends of the court was instrumental in the Warriors’ win. Stall’s fast-paced style and defensive tenacity have established them as a program to watch in the Lowcountry.

Bethune-Bowman stayed competitive throughout but couldn’t close the gap late in the game. The Mohawks are continuing to refine their approach and work toward consistent success.

Cathedral 69, Northwood 38

MVP: Bryce Ward (Cathedral) – 40 points

Bryce Ward dominated for Cathedral, pouring in 40 points in one of the most impressive individual performances of the showcase. Ward’s ability to score from all three levels made him nearly unstoppable. Cathedral continues to demonstrate why they are one of the most balanced teams in the Lowcountry, excelling on both offense and defense.

Northwood is in a developmental stage, focusing on player growth and team cohesion. Despite the tough loss, the Chargers remain committed to improving and building for the future.

James Island 88, First Baptist 42

MVP: Parker Rinalt (James Island) – 21 points

James Island made a statement with their dominant win, led by Parker Rinalt’s 21 points. The Trojans are off to one of the strongest starts in the Lowcountry, combining depth, balance, and relentless pressure to overwhelm opponents. With performances like this, James Island has positioned itself as a frontrunner in the region.

First Baptist competed hard but struggled to keep pace with James Island’s relentless offensive firepower. The Hurricanes will look to regroup and build as the season progresses.

The Bigger Picture

The Low Country Showcase continues to be one of the most effective tools for promoting basketball in the under-recruited Lowcountry. Multiple scouts were on hand, providing players with the opportunity to gain much-needed exposure. With standout performances from players like Jake Thomas, Bryce Ward, Tamiya Spillers, and Ava Rush, the event highlighted the area’s rising talent. Thanks to the efforts of Dr. Palmer-Roberts and Weber, the Showcase succeeded in shining a spotlight on the incredible potential within the Lowcountry basketball community.


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Josh Cutler
JOSH CUTLER

With over a decade of experience in sports writing and deep involvement in high-level travel and high school basketball, Josh has covered it all in boys’ and girls’ hoops. His expertise includes running tournaments, scouting future stars and connecting them with college coaches. With vast experience as varsity basketball head coach, he brings first-hand insight into every aspect of the game. From finding the next big thing to covering the local high school scene, basketball is what he knows best. Off the court, Josh is a dedicated father of four and a proud husband, balancing family life with his passion for the game. Whether coaching, writing, or spending time with family, basketball is always part of the equation.