Martin's 21 help High Point down Presbyterian 84-81

In a high-stakes Big South Conference showdown, the High Point Panthers secured a narrow 84-81 victory over the Presbyterian Blue Hose on Thursday. The contest was defined by offensive efficiency and a standout performance from High Point's star guard, Rob Martin, who spearheaded the Panthers' attack. Martin finished the night with a team-high 21 points, showcasing his ability to score from both the perimeter and in transition during critical stretches of the game. This victory further solidifies High Point's standing as a dominant force in their conference race, as they managed to withstand a resilient late-game push from the Blue Hose. The game remained competitive until the final buzzer, with Presbyterian keeping pace through a balanced offensive approach. Despite the Blue Hose’s efforts to narrow the gap in the closing minutes, High Point’s execution at the free-throw line and their ability to secure defensive rebounds proved to be the deciding factors. The Panthers demonstrated poise under pressure, moving the ball effectively to find open shooters whenever Presbyterian threatened to take the lead. This win highlights High Point’s trend of winning close games, a trait that will be vital as they head toward the conference tournament. While Rob Martin carried the scoring load, the victory was a collective effort that underscored the depth of the High Point roster. The Panthers' coaching staff successfully neutralized Presbyterian's primary scoring threats at pivotal moments, forcing the Blue Hose into difficult shots during the final possessions. For Presbyterian, the loss serves as a missed opportunity to climb the ladder in the Big South standings, though their competitive performance against an elite opponent suggests they remain a dangerous underdog. High Point now looks ahead to their next matchup, aiming to maintain the momentum generated by this hard-fought road victory.