BOILING SPRINGS, N.C. – High Point University Panthers celebrated a strong finish in their last road game of the Big South season, defeating Gardner-Webb University 90-67. This victory marked their 10th consecutive win and the third straight game with a margin of over 20 points. HPU also became the first team in the nation to reach 25 wins this season, securing a share of the Big South regular season title.
Kezza Giffa shone brightly in the game, scoring a game-high 23 points with impressive shooting, including hitting 8 of 10 from the free-throw line. Bobby Pettiford was also key, dishing out 8 assists as he and Giffa combined for 14 assists without a single turnover. Juslin Bodo Bodo brought energy on defense, grabbing 10 rebounds and blocking 2 shots.
Coach Alan Huss praised his team’s performance, noting how well they adjusted to Gardner-Webb’s defensive strategies. He pointed out the effectiveness of the two point guards and expressed excitement for their upcoming regular season finale against USC Upstate.
The game saw a steady start from High Point. Despite a slow beginning, an alley-oop from Giffa to Bodo Bodo set the tone just three minutes in, giving them an early edge. After Gardner-Webb tied the game at eight, a three-pointer from Chase Johnston propelled the Panthers ahead again, sparking momentum.
Around the 13-minute mark, Bobby Pettiford entered and quickly made an impact with consecutive fast breaks that widened the gap. A noteworthy 11-0 run later in the half saw High Point extend its lead significantly, with contributions from multiple players including Kimani Hamilton and Giffa.
By halftime, the Panthers were leading comfortably at 48-28. They maintained control in the second half, with Hamilton scoring back-to-back baskets to keep the margin safe. Gardner-Webb fought hard, trimming the lead down to 11 at one point, but High Point held firm.
In the closing moments, the team cleared the bench, allowing Andrew Sineway to score the final points, wrapping up the game at 90-67.
Next up, High Point prepares to host USC Upstate for senior night on February 26 at 7:00 p.m. inside the Qubein Center.
