The Boilermakers had a key sequence to close the first half and extend their lead. Then, the stars took over when needed in the second half.

The SportsLine Projection Model has revealed its High Point Panthers vs. Purdue Boilermakers picks for the first round of the 2025 NCAA Tournament on Thursday

Purdue led by 10 at halftime and while High Point chipped away at the lead, it always seemed to have the appropriate response. The Panthers’ had the deficit down to 51-46 with 11:12 left, but a 3-pointer from the left corner by Camden Heidi, followed by a one-shot stop and a dunk by Myles Colvin had the Boilermakers back up 56-46.