High Point takes on an opponent that’s not undefeated. UIC sits at 3-1 entering their November 20, 2025 matchup at the Boardwalk Battle. The Panthers bring a perfect 4-1 record and are ranked 8th nationally in the mid-major polls. This Daytona Beach showdown matters for both teams.
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🔥 Quick Facts:
- High Point favored by 8.5 points against UIC in tournament play
- Game airs November 20, 2025 at 2:30 PM EST at Ocean Center
- High Point ranked 8th in CollegeInsider.com mid-major rankings
- UIC competes in Missouri Valley Conference with solid credentials
- Boardwalk Battle tournament runs Nov. 20-22 in Daytona Beach, Florida
What Happened At The Tournament
The Boardwalk Battle brings eight mid-major teams to Daytona Beach for early-season tournament play. High Point enters as one of the tournament favorites after an excellent start. The Panthers come off late victories against Canisius on November 17, improving their tournament positioning. Meanwhile, UIC started strong but needs wins to build conference momentum.
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Both squads are seeking tournament runs to establish credibility. High Point won the Big South Conference championship last season. UIC carries experience from the Missouri Valley Conference and knows tournament basketball. This semifinal matchup determines championship positioning for later rounds.
Why This Matchup Matters
For High Point, a victory advances them deeper in tournament play. The Panthers need showcases against quality opponents. UIC presents exactly that—a 3-1 team with 8.5 points as underdogs. Covering that spread or winning outright proves High Point’s legitimacy as a national mid-major contender.
For UIC, upsetting a ranked team changes their tournament narrative entirely. The Flames have the talent to compete on the national stage. Winning in Daytona Beach sends a message about their potential. This game shapes how both teams finish the tournament run.
Both Teams’ Road To November 20
Here’s how each squad prepared for this showdown:
| Team | Record | Key Stat | Notable |
| High Point | 4-1 | Ranked 8th mid-major | Won Big South last year |
| UIC | 3-1 | Favored as +8.5 underdog | MVC conference play begins |
The Panthers bring Big South championship pedigree. UIC brings Missouri Valley Conference depth. This tournament provides both sides non-conference testing before conference play intensifies. Rankings favor High Point, but UIC has the tools to keep it close.
The Betting Picture
Sports books opened High Point as 8.5-point favorites over UIC. The line reflects High Point’s stronger start and national ranking. However, smart bettors note this remains Thanksgiving tournament basketball. Anything can happen in early-season tournaments played in neutral venues.
The total sits around 153 points, suggesting a moderately paced game. This line respects both defenses while accounting for early-season variability. Experts see High Point winning the spread, but UIC will keep Daytona Beach fans entertained. Which team capitalizes on opportunities?
What Comes Next After November 20?
- Winners advance to final matchups on November 22 for championship glory
- High Point continues Big South conference play following the tournament round
- UIC returns to Missouri Valley Conference competition with tournament experience
- Both squads build tournament resumes for potential NCAA selections in March
- Conference play accelerates stakes for both programs through December
Can UIC Pull Off The Upset In Daytona Beach?
Las Vegas favors High Point by 8.5 points, but tournament dynamics differ from regular-season play. UIC possesses the talent to compete with ranked opponents. The Flames need strong perimeter shooting and defensive intensity. Will the underdog execute under tournament pressure?
High Point enters as the clear favorite with preseason recognition and superior records. The Panthers must avoid complacency against 3-1 competition. Matchup control, three-point shooting, and ball security become decisive. The Daytona Beach court awaits.
Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.