CLINTON, S.C. (Interstat) — High Point built a large early lead and withstood a second-half rally to defeat Presbyterian 79-73 in a Big South Conference men’s basketball game Thursday night at Templeton Center.

The Panthers opened with a 16-2 run and led 45-35 at halftime. The Blue Hose chipped away after the break, closing within four points, but could not complete the comeback. Triston Wilson led all scorers with 17 points for Presbyterian. Rob Martin paced High Point with 14 points and five assists.

High Point improved to 27-4 overall. Presbyterian fell to 14-16. A crowd of 1,438 attended.