Via Beach Ball Classic Website Archbishop Spalding (MD) built a double digit lead in the second half and then had to hold off a charging Landmark Christian (GA) squad for a 62-55 victory in the opening round of the 2003 Beach Ball Classic at the Myrtle Beach (SC) Convention Center. In a tightly contested first half, the two squads battled to six ties and three lead changes. Archbishop Spalding (7-0) took its largest lead in the opening period at 16-8 on Marquis Sullivan's jumper with 9:12 on the clock. Landmark Christian (7-2) battled right back, scoring nine of the game's next 10 points to knot the score at 17-17 with 6:59 remaining. The game was still tied at 24-24 with 1:54 to play when Archbishop Spalding scored the half's final eight points to take a 32-24 lead at the break. The Cavaliers continued to hold the advantage throughout the second half, building the lead to aa at 51-40 with 4:39 remaining in regulation. Landmark Christian refused to roll over and used a 13-4 run over the next 2:46 to close the gap to just two points at 55-53 with 1:53 on the clock. Archbishop Spalding connected on 7-of-8 from the free throw line the remainder of the way to seal the victory. Rudy Gay led Archbishop Spalding with 22 points and seven rebounds, while Jesse Brooks added 12 points off of the bench. Randolph Morris paced Landmark Christian with 21 points, 12 rebounds and three blocked shots. © Beach Ball Classic • All rights reserved worldwide. Site created and maintained by Creative Consultants Group, Inc.