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The South Carolina high school basketball playoffs are nearing their end with championship games approaching. Many were unable to attend a recent semifinal round after a venue change.
Hundreds of fans were denied entry to a packed house in Rock Hill this weekend. The issue should be avoided in the final round.
The ticketing problem arose ahead of a matchup between South Pointe and Lancaster. The highly anticipated contest held major championship implications.
The Stallions were set to square off against the Bruins in the 4A Upper State finals. The winner would play the Lower State champ in the state title.
Those two schools are separated by just 25 miles. Initially, they were set to play the semifinal round in Gaffney, at least an hour away from each campus.
The venue was changed to nearby Rock Hill High School a few days before tipoff. That move was beneficial in the sense that it resulted in less travel. Other logistical issues were experienced.
High school basketball fans were denied entry.
What an environment.
For the third time this season, Lancaster takes on South Pointe. This time, it’s for the Upper State championship.
Bruins won both regular season meetings.
Winner will take on North Augusta next Saturday. pic.twitter.com/dFpwIXOjSf
— Andrew Chodes (@AndrewChodes_) February 28, 2026
The arena, which holds less than 3,000 fans, was packed. Hundreds lined up outside the venue in hopes of gaining entry. Many would be turned away.
Per the sheriff, people are going to be denied entry. The high school league did not open ticket sales until 23 minutes ago… absolutely ridiculous. Got a line of probably 6-700 people outside.@LouatTheState https://t.co/UPbj88VDKq pic.twitter.com/68fnKGZiav
— Andrew Chodes (@AndrewChodes_) February 28, 2026
A line of what looked like at least 500 people formed quickly outside Rock Hill High School. Up to 150 were left waiting, unable to secure gameday tickets.
I can confirm about 100-150 people were turned away from the South Pointe-Lancaster game. Capacity at the gym is 2842.
— Chris Dearing (@CDearing82) February 28, 2026
It seems the South Carolina High School League was scrambling to find a suitable basketball location, one that would accommodate the nearby fanbases.
Indian Land High, for example, was an initial thought, though it, too, was nixed to avoid this exact scenario. Late ticket releases only compounded the issue.
Luckily, it shouldn’t be an issue moving forward with the championship games set to be played in 18,000-person Colonial Life Arena.
After beating Lancaster 58-34, South Pointe will play North Augusta in the state title.