The numbers
High Point University has made headlines by securing its first-ever NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament victory, defeating the No. 5-seed Wisconsin Badgers 83-82 on March 19, 2026. This victory marks a significant milestone for the Panthers, who finished the season with an impressive 30-4 record and clinched the Big South Conference Championship.
In a thrilling game, Rob Martin led the Panthers with 23 points and 10 assists, showcasing his skills in a high-pressure situation. The victory is particularly notable as it represents the first major upset of the NCAA Tournament in the opening round, a feat that has energized the High Point community and basketball fans alike.
High Point’s journey to this historic win has been remarkable. The Panthers have won 22 of their last 23 games leading up to the NCAA Tournament, demonstrating their dominance and resilience on the court. Flynn Clayman, the current head coach, has played a pivotal role in guiding the team through this successful season, building on the foundation laid since their transition to Division I in the 1999-00 season.
The Panthers’ home games are held at the Qubein Center, which opened in September 2021, providing a modern venue for fans and players. This state-of-the-art facility has become a fortress for the team, contributing to their home-court advantage throughout the season.
Historically, High Point University has had a challenging path in NCAA basketball. The Panthers made their first NCAA Tournament appearance in 2025 as a 13-seed, but this year’s victory marks a turning point for the program. Gene Littles, the all-time leading scorer for High Point with 2,410 points, remains a celebrated figure in the university’s basketball history, inspiring current players to reach new heights.
Observers are eager to see how High Point will build on this momentum in the upcoming rounds of the tournament. With the excitement surrounding their first NCAA Tournament win, the Panthers have captured the attention of the college basketball world, and fans are hopeful for further success.
High Point is known for its unique traditions, often referred to as ‘life skills.’ Job interviews and client deals often happen over meals, reflecting the university’s commitment to preparing students for success beyond the classroom. As the Panthers continue their tournament journey, the community rallies behind them, celebrating this historic achievement.
Details remain unconfirmed about the next matchups and how far High Point can advance in the tournament, but the excitement is palpable as they aim to make even more history.