Wofford at High Point
HIGH POINT, N.C. (Interstat) — Macy Spencer scored a game-high 24 points and High Point used a dominant second half to overcome an early double-digit deficit and defeat Wofford 81-73 in a non-conference women’s basketball game Saturday at Qubein Arena.
The Panthers improved to 2-0, while the Terriers evened their record at 1-1.
Wofford raced out to a commanding lead, fueled by a hot-shooting first quarter. The Terriers connected on five of their first seven shots and built a 25-15 lead after the opening period. The advantage grew to as many as 12 points in the first half before High Point began to chip away.
The Panthers closed the second quarter on a 9-2 run to trim Wofford’s halftime lead to 39-35. The momentum carried into the third quarter, where High Point outscored the Terriers 22-13 to take a 57-52 lead into the final frame.
High Point’s defense was the catalyst for the comeback, forcing 18 Wofford turnovers and converting them into 22 points. The Panthers also capitalized at the free-throw line, making 19 of 22 attempts, while Wofford attempted just 13 free throws, making 10.
Spencer, a guard from Katy, Texas, played a team-high 39 minutes and was instrumental in the Panthers’ offensive execution. She was complemented by Chana Paxixe, who came off the bench to provide 17 points and seven rebounds. Nevaeh Zavala added 15 points and seven rebounds, and Brecken Snotherly chipped in 10 points, four rebounds and four assists.
Wofford was led by Gabby Mundy with 15 points. Molly Masingale recorded a double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds, while Queen Ikhiuwu added 12 points, eight rebounds and two blocks. Maddie Heiss also scored 12 points for the Terriers.
Despite the loss, Wofford shot a higher percentage from the field, finishing 29 for 63 (46%) compared to High Point’s 28 for 72 (38.9%). However, the Terriers’ 18 turnovers and High Point’s significant advantage in free-throw opportunities proved to be the difference.
A crowd of 4,156 watched the Panthers secure the victory in their home opener. High Point’s next game is Wednesday at home against Merrimack. Wofford returns to action Tuesday, hosting Georgia State.