Chase Johnston and High Point surprise Wisconsin in the first big upset of March Madness 2026

March Madness Kicks Off with High Point Upset

March Madness has begun with an exciting matchup featuring High Point University.

The 12th-seeded Panthers triumphed over the 5th-seeded Wisconsin Badgers, pulling off a nail-biting 83-82 victory in front of an enthusiastic crowd at the Moda Center in Portland, Oregon. Chase Johnston, a graduate from the moderately-sized but affluent North Carolina school, emerged as a key player, scoring 11 of his 14 points during the game’s second half. His impressive 3-point shooting included a remarkable long-range effort that would have made Damian Lillard, the Trail Blazers star, nod in approval.

However, the pivotal baskets weren’t all from downtown. After Wisconsin guard Nick Boyd missed a shot near the rim, Johnston seized the moment and secured the winning layup with just 11.5 seconds left on the clock. Notably, this wasn’t just any 2-pointer; it marked his first of the season.

Boyd, who amassed 27 points during the game, faced a crucial block from Owen Aquino in the final seconds. Even after Cam Fletcher missed a free throw with 2.1 seconds remaining, Terry Anderson intercepted a desperate pass, sending the crowd into a frenzy. An upset was at hand, and it was just another reminder of why March Madness captivates so many—unless, of course, you’re rooting for Wisconsin.

Post-game, Johnston reflected, saying, “After I threw that one, I just knew I needed to put it in the hoop and seal the win.” He seemed to embody the drive that his team displayed throughout the game.

High Point’s fast-paced offense managed to keep Wisconsin on their toes, even during quieter phases. The Panthers shot 15 out of 40 from 3-point territory, with an impressive 9 of 17 in the second half. Coach Flynn Kleiman’s squad also excelled at containing Wisconsin’s John Blackwell, who scored 20 points in the first half but was limited to just two points in the second, going 1-for-7 and committing five turnovers.

Blackwell, speaking post-game, noted, “I think it would have been different in the second half if we had maintained our focus. We had opportunities but fell short. Credit to them for their defense.”

A standout performer for High Point was Rob Martin, a transfer from San Diego State University, who led the team with 23 points and 10 assists. Cam Fletcher contributed significantly too, notching a double-double with 14 points and 11 rebounds.

This victory marks a significant milestone for High Point, as it’s their first win in the NCAA Tournament after just their second appearance. Last season, they couldn’t get past Purdue, but they certainly held their own against a Big Ten opponent this time around.