Big South Showdown: High Point Panthers Clash with Gardner-Webb in High-Stakes Quarterfinal Battle
The 2025 Big South Tournament is heating up, and the quarterfinal round promises fireworks as the top-seeded High Point Panthers (26-5) square off against the 8-seed Gardner-Webb Runnin’ Bulldogs (11-19) this Friday. The Panthers have been on an absolute tear, storming into the postseason with 11 consecutive victories, their latest being a dominant 88-66 statement win over South Carolina Upstate on Feb. 26. Meanwhile, the Runnin’ Bulldogs shook off a four-game losing streak in dramatic fashion, dismantling South Carolina Upstate 83-63 in the tournament’s opening round.
Set in the electrifying atmosphere of Freedom Hall Civic Center in Johnson City, Tenn., tipoff is scheduled for noon ET. According to SportsLine consensus odds, High Point enters as a commanding 13.5-point favorite, with the total points over/under set at 155.5. But before placing your bets, make sure to check out the expert insights from the SportsLine Projection Model.
Numbers Don’t Lie: SportsLine’s Track Record Speaks for Itself
The SportsLine model, a powerhouse in college basketball predictions, simulates every Division 1 game 10,000 times. Heading into Week 18 of the 2024-25 season, it’s riding a scorching 221-162 betting record (+1895), proving to be a goldmine for those following along on sportsbooks and betting apps.
The model has now turned its attention to High Point vs. Gardner-Webb, meticulously analyzing the matchup to deliver its highly sought-after picks. Want to see the projections? Head over to SportsLine for the full breakdown. Meanwhile, here’s a look at the latest betting lines and key trends:
- Spread: High Point -13.5
- Over/Under: 155.5 points
- Money Line: High Point -1099, Gardner-Webb +691
- Streaming: FuboTV (Try for free)
Why High Point Can Cover
Senior guard Kezza Giffa has been nothing short of electric for the Panthers. Leading the squad with 14.6 points per game, he’s also dishing out 2.5 assists and grabbing 2.5 rebounds per contest. Giffa has hit 16+ points in six of his last seven outings, including a dazzling 23-point, six-assist showcase against Gardner-Webb on Feb. 22.
Junior forward Kimani Hamilton has been equally impressive, contributing 13.8 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game. His presence in the paint and defensive prowess make him a dual threat, and he’s been in top form, scoring 15+ points in three straight games. His latest outing saw him tally 16 points and seven boards.
Why Gardner-Webb Can Cover
Sophomore guard Darryl Simmons II is a dynamic force, leading the Runnin’ Bulldogs with 17.4 points per game, along with 3.1 rebounds and two assists. He’s proven to be a clutch performer, dropping 20+ points in 10 games this season. When these teams last met on Feb. 22, Simmons II torched High Point with 21 points and three deep-range daggers.
Senior guard Anthony Selden is another player to watch. With his explosive first step and physicality in the lane, he’s been averaging 14.4 points and four rebounds per game. Selden has scored 17+ points in four of his last six games, and in his most recent performance, he poured in 18 points and snatched six rebounds.
Betting Prediction: What the Model Says
The SportsLine model is leaning toward the Under on the total, predicting a combined 155 points. Additionally, one side of the spread has a significant edge in more than 50% of simulations. Curious about which team has the betting advantage?
Find out at SportsLine, where the advanced model—already up nearly $2,000 on top-rated spread picks since 2023—has revealed its exclusive insights. Don’t miss your chance to make an informed bet on this thrilling Big South showdown!
