HPU Volleyball captures Big South Championship in thrilling fashion

 High Point University volleyball etched its name in the Big South record books once again, defeating Winthrop 3-2 in an electrifying battle to claim the conference championship. In front of an exciting crowd at the Millis Center, the Panthers delivered a clutch, all-around performance, led by Élodie Lalonde’s offensive dominance and standout contributions from Karli Shepherd and Dylan Maberry. With the win, High Point secured its ticket to the NCAA Tournament for its third straight year, capping a season defined by grit.

“This was an incredible win, but now the real work begins,” said head coach Ryan Meek. “We need to keep pushing, stay focused and continue working hard to prepare for the challenges ahead in the tournament. This team has the potential to achieve even more.”

The championship match began with intensity as both teams refused to give an inch. High Point relied on Lalonde’s powerful attacks and Shepherd’s precision, but Winthrop countered with sharp defensive plays to keep the opening set within reach. With the score tied late, Avery Jolley delivered a crucial kill for the Eagles, clinching a hard-fought 25-23 first set and giving Winthrop the early edge.

Unfazed by the setback, the Panthers responded with a fiery second set. Maberry and Shepherd attacked relentlessly, while Eve Wilson’s solid defense kept High Point’s momentum strong. A pair of perfectly timed blocks from Wilson and Sparks stumped Winthrop’s offense, propelling the Panthers to a commanding 25-19 victory that tied the match at 1-1.

The third set was all High Point, as Lalonde took over in dominant fashion. Her powerful kills brought life to the crowd and left Winthrop struggling to keep up. Karli Shepherd was the steady hand guiding the offense, setting up plays with precision, while Brooke Briscoe’s well-timed service ace sent a boost of confidence through the team. With the energy firmly on their side, the Panthers entered the fourth set ready to close out the game.

The fourth set saw Winthrop push the game to its limits. Rachel McCollum and Jolley dominated at the net, while the Eagles’ defense stifled High Point’s offense. A late run by Winthrop closed out the set 25-19, setting the stage for a decisive fifth.

In the final set, the Panthers showed their strength. An ace from Brooke Briscoe and a pivotal block by Wilson and BayLea Sparks gave High Point an early edge. The Eagles fought back, but Maberry’s clutch kills and a game-winning swing from Shepherd clinched the 15-11 victory, igniting celebrations across the Millis Center.
With the Big South trophy in hand, the Panthers now turn their focus to the NCAA Tournament, and hope to build off their confidence and momentum. As the team celebrated its hard-earned title, Meek summed up the moment perfectly: “This is what we’ve worked for all year.”

High Point enters the NCAA Tournament on December 5, ready to make its mark on the national stage.