HIGH POINT, N.C. — In a thrilling overtime matchup, Bobby Pettiford tallied 20 points to help High Point overcome UNC Asheville 104-100 on Saturday evening.

Pettiford also contributed five rebounds to the Panthers’ efforts, bringing their season record to 21 wins and 5 losses, along with 9 victories and 2 defeats in the Big South Conference. Kezza Giffa matched Pettiford’s scoring total with 20 points, shooting 6 of 13 overall, including one 3-pointer out of three attempts, and succeeding in all seven of his free-throw attempts. Additionally, Juslin Bodo Bodo provided strong support, scoring 19 points by making eight of his 11 shots from the field and converting three of seven free throws. This victory marked High Point’s sixth consecutive win.

The momentum swung in High Point’s favor when Giffa sank a jumper less than a minute into the overtime period, and from that point on, the Panthers maintained the lead.

For UNC Asheville, Jordan Marsh delivered an impressive performance, leading his team with 33 points, eight rebounds, four steals, and two blocks. Teammate Josh Banks contributed 20 points, while Toyaz Solomon added 17 points, seven rebounds, and four blocks. Unfortunately for the Bulldogs, this setback concluded a seven-game winning streak.

A pivotal moment in the game occurred when Marsh made a 3-pointer with just 14 seconds remaining in regulation, leveling the score at 86. Pettiford’s last-second attempt to secure a win before the buzzer was unsuccessful, resulting in overtime.

Looking ahead, both teams will return to action on Wednesday. High Point is set to host Longwood, while UNC Asheville will travel to face South Carolina Upstate.