News Summary
In the Big South Conference semi-finals on March 8, 2025, High Point University emerged victorious against Winthrop University, winning 84-62. The game highlighted High Point’s exceptional performance, with notable contributions from several players. This victory sets High Point on a winning trajectory as they prepare for their next match, while Winthrop reflects on a challenging season and prepares for the offseason with strategies for improvement.
High Point University Dominates Winthrop University in Big South Conference Semi-Finals
High Point, North Carolina – On March 8, 2025, the Winthrop University men’s basketball team faced a tough challenge in the Big South Conference semi-finals against the High Point University Panthers. In a game that showcased both teams’ skills, the Eagles unfortunately fell short, with a final score of 84-62. This defeat brings Winthrop’s season record to 13 wins and 9 losses, with a conference record dipping to 3 wins and 4 losses.
The Match Unfolds
From the get-go, High Point claimed the floor. They set the pace early on by taking a slim early lead of 4-3. Sensational plays, including an energizing three-pointer by Chase Johnston, kicked off the Panthers’ offense in a big way. As the game progressed, High Point quickly built up a lead, and before Winthrop knew it, they found themselves trailing 15-5.
The Panthers were simply on fire in the first half, showcasing their impressive shooting skills. With Kezza Giffa scoring an and-one basket and Hamilton throwing down a magnificent two-handed dunk, the momentum was firmly in High Point’s court. Although Winthrop tried to respond, the Panthers’ Terry Anderson added a three-pointer and another layup to further extend the lead.
By halftime, it was clear that High Point was in control, dominating with a solid 47-25 lead. Their shooting efficiency was staggering during this period, hitting a remarkable 60 percent of their shots. Abdoulaye Thiam led the scoring for High Point in the first half with 9 points, while both Williams and Anderson closely followed with 8 points each. The Eagle’s defensive strategies seemed ineffective against High Point’s relentless offense.
Second Half Struggles for Winthrop
The second half continued down the same path, with High Point maintaining their offensive momentum. Even as Winthrop attempted to rally back, High Point’s scoring from Williams and Hamilton was too much to handle. Throughout the match, it became increasingly clear that the Eagles lacked the spark needed to flip the game in their favor.
Impressively, five players from High Point finished the game in double figures. Kimani Hamilton and Kezza Giffa topped the charts with 14 points each, while D’Maurian Williams contributed 13 points alongside 5 rebounds. Abdoulaye Thiam added a steady 11 points, and Juslin Bodo rounded things off with 10 points and a staggering 12 rebounds. The balanced scoring across the board was a reflection of High Point’s cohesive team play, highlighting the challenges Winthrop faced throughout the evening.
What’s Next for Winthrop?
This defeat marked a bitter end for Winthrop in the semi-finals and leaves them heading into the offseason with questions to ponder and improvements to be made. With a season record dropping to 13-9 overall, the team now faces the task of regrouping and refreshing for the upcoming season while reflecting on their performance in the Big South Conference.
For High Point University, however, the victory symbolizes their sixth win in the conference and marks an impressive third consecutive win. They look ahead confidently to their next match against Presbyterian College scheduled for February 1, 2025. While Winthrop has a long way to go, it’s all part of the beautiful game—and they are sure to bounce back stronger next season.
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Additional Resources
- ESPN: Winthrop vs High Point Game Summary
- High Point Panthers: Advances to Big South Title Game
- Winthrop Eagles: Women’s Basketball Semifinals
- Google Search: High Point University Basketball
- Wikipedia: High Point University
