HIGH POINT, N.C. — Averett University men's basketball saw its first action with an exhibition at Division I High Point University on Saturday night. The Cougars held their own in an 85-57 loss to the Big South Conference preseason favorite.

Averett, playing without two key players, hung with High Point early on in the contest. The Panthers, who received votes in The Associated Press basketball poll, eventually got hot from beyond the arc to add some cushion to their lead. High Point took a 45-22 lead into halftime.

The Cougars held their own in the second half and were only outscored by High Point 40-35 after the break.

Senior Bryce Shaw led Averett with 18 points, while sophomore Jamison Graves had 16 points. Freshman Zach Skogen grabbed a team-high nine rebounds and dished out five assists. Freshman Mason Mitchell added seven points or the Cougars.

Averett limited Big South Preseason Player of the Year Kezza Giffa to seven points.

Averett opens the season on the road at No. 20 Maryville College on Nov. 9.