High Point pulled off a major upset in March Madness after coming back from double digits.
The No. 12 seed took down No. 5 Wisconsin in a thrilling 83-82 victory, marking High Point’s first ever tournament victory.
Johnston’s Game-Winning Basket and Message
High Point guard Chase Johnston scored the game-winning basket with 11.7 seconds left. After the game, he delivered a message of faith.
“First and foremost, I wanna give all glory to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ,” Johnston said. “It’s been an unbelievable season. This is a group of guys that’s built on John 15:13. We serve each other, we love each other, and we’d die for each other. I’m so grateful.”
Johnston’s bucket came on a breakaway layup after Wisconsin guard Nick Boyd missed a layup. High Point guard Rob Martin hauled in the rebound and fired downcourt to Johnston.
The bucket was Johnston’s first two-point basket of the season, despite him being a 3-point specialist.
Key Plays in the Final Seconds
After Johnston’s basket gave High Point the lead, Owen Aquino blocked a driving layup by Boyd. Cam’Ron Fletcher of the Panthers was fouled and missed a free throw, giving the Badgers a chance with 1.8 seconds left.
Andrew Rohde’s long pass was stolen by Terry Anderson, leading to a High Point celebration.
High Point’s Tournament Journey
High Point earned a spot in the tournament by winning the Big South title for the second straight season. Last year was its first ever appearance in the tournament, but it lost as a 13-seed to No. 4 Purdue.
- High Point is the No. 12 seed.
- They defeated No. 5 Wisconsin.
- The score was 83-82.
Looking Ahead
The Panthers face No. 4 Arkansas on Saturday. Coach Flynn Clayman had called out major schools for avoiding mid-majors throughout the season.