High Point Loses Late Thriller to Southern Illinois 86 84
High Point University fell to Southern Illinois 86 84 at the Qubein Center on December 3, 2025, after surrendering a second half lead in a game decided on a shot with 0.4 seconds remaining. The narrow defeat highlighted strong individual efforts from Terry Anderson and Rob Martin, and underscored the role of the Qubein Center as a gathering place with local economic and civic implications for Guilford County.
High Point University surrendered a hard fought home victory to Southern Illinois as the visitors closed the second half on a decisive run and converted a final play with 0.4 seconds remaining. The Panthers built a sizable cushion by halftime but were overtaken in a second half that swung momentum several times before the dramatic finish.
High Point led 46 34 at the break behind efficient scoring and rebounding from Terry Anderson and steady offense from Rob Martin. Anderson finished with 21 points and 10 rebounds, marking the first time he recorded both double digit scoring and double digit rebounding in an HPU uniform. Martin added 20 points as the Panthers pushed the pace early and controlled much of the first half.
Southern Illinois answered in the second half, outscoring High Point 52 38 to take the lead. The game featured multiple momentum shifts, and Conrad Martinez contributed key plays down the stretch as High Point mounted a late charge. The Panthers fought back to tie the score at 84 late in the closing minutes, only to see Southern Illinois convert the winning basket in the final seconds.
Box score details reflected the tale of two halves, with shooting fluctuations, rebounding battles, and turnover patterns all influencing the outcome. Those statistical swings amplified the importance of execution in late game possessions and exposed areas coaches will want to address as the non conference slate continues.
For Guilford County the contest matters beyond a single result. The Qubein Center continues to draw large crowds for collegiate events, providing civic gathering opportunities and tangible economic activity for nearby businesses on game nights. The narrow loss also has implications for team momentum and fan engagement at a stage when each home game shapes recruitment visibility and community support for the program. Coaching staff cited the need to respond and refocus, and the next home opportunity will be watched closely by local supporters.
