High Point Panthers vs UIC: Boardwalk Battle Preview

The college basketball world turns its attention to Daytona Beach as the High Point Panthers (4-1) face the UIC Flames (3-1) in the Boardwalk Battle on Thursday, November 20. This highly anticipated matchup features two of the nation's most exciting mid-major programs, with tip-off set for 2:30 PM ET at the Ocean Center.

High Point Panthers: Momentum and New Beginnings

Under first-year head coach Flynn Clayman, the Panthers are riding a wave of confidence following their historic 2024-25 NCAA Tournament appearance. They've opened the season with an explosive offense averaging 93+ points per game, highlighted by a program-record 127-point victory over Averett and a 93-50 rout of Canisius—the largest margin of victory over a Division I opponent in program history.

Senior forward Cam'Ron Fletcher leads the charge with a career-best scoring average after transferring from Kentucky, Florida State, and Xavier. Named Big South Player of the Week, he's surrounded by a deep roster featuring eight returning starters and key transfers like Rob Martin (17 points vs. Canisius) and Chase Johnston (15 points on 5 threes against the same opponent).

"The energy for this season all stems with the new first-year Head Coach Flynn Clayman," noted the High Point athletic department. "Since cracking the CollegeInsider.com Mid-Major Top 25® in December 2023, High Point has remained in the top 25 for 36 consecutive weeks."

UIC Flames: Resilience and Defensive Grit

Despite their 3-1 start, UIC has shown both promise and vulnerability. The Flames' lone loss came in a tight 76-73 battle against Oregon State, proving they can compete with Power Five programs. They rely on a balanced attack led by Ahmad Henderson II (16.8 PPG), Andy Johnson (15.0 PPG), and Elijah Crawford (13.0 PPG), with Mekhi Lowery anchoring the glass at 6.3 rebounds per game.

However, significant concerns persist. UIC struggles with rebounding and lacks size in the paint, committing over 14 turnovers per game. Their defensive strengths may be tested against High Point's high-pressure offense, which has been honed by former Creighton assistant Alan Huss's system.

"I don't see a reason why I shouldn't lay the points with High Point. The Panthers' style of play will be very hard for the Flames to correct its biggest issues." — Action Network

Betting Preview: Panthers Heavy Favorites

Sportsbooks have made High Point a significant -8.5-point favorite with a moneyline of -450. The total sits at 154.5 points. Analytics models project an 80% win probability for High Point, with a predicted 83-73 final score. Both Action Network and Dimers favor the Panthers to cover the spread, citing their offensive firepower and UIC's turnover issues.

"High Point's style of play will be very hard for the Flames to correct its biggest issues," stated Action Network's Jonathan Jorcin. "The depth and solid defense of High Point will make this game a blowout."

How to Watch

Fans can catch all the action on Thursday at 2:30 PM ET from the Ocean Center in Daytona Beach. The game will be streamed exclusively on BallerTV, making it easily accessible for mid-major basketball enthusiasts nationwide.

As these two mid-major powerhouses clash in Florida, expect High Point's offensive firepower to overwhelm UIC's defensive vulnerabilities. The Panthers' tournament experience and depth should ultimately prove decisive in their quest to continue their historic season.