In March 2025, two High Point University students, Jimmy Rosselli and Griffin Wright, became overnight sensations with their electrifying radio call during the Big South Tournament Championship game. Their passionate broadcast of the High Point Panthers’ historic comeback went viral, earning them praise across the college basketball world. Recently, the duo shared their story, offering insight into the thrilling moment that captivated fans nationwide. Here’s a deep dive into their viral radio call, the game that sparked it, and what’s next for these rising stars.
The Game That Started It All
A Historic Comeback for High Point University
On March 11, 2025, the High Point Panthers took on Winthrop in the Big South Tournament Championship. Trailing by 15 points in the second half, the Panthers unleashed a stunning 24-2 run, clinching an 81-69 victory. This triumph marked High Point University’s first-ever NCAA Tournament berth, a milestone that electrified the campus and beyond. While the players deserve credit for their on-court heroics, it was Rosselli and Wright’s courtside commentary that turned the game into a viral phenomenon.
The Call That Captured the Moment
Broadcasting live, Jimmy Rosselli and Griffin Wright brought the comeback to life with unbridled enthusiasm. As the Panthers surged ahead, their voices cracked with excitement, perfectly mirroring the crowd’s energy. The call, later shared on social media, exploded online, earning accolades from outlets like Mid-Major Madness, which dubbed it an “absolute electric factory.” It’s no wonder this moment became a defining highlight of March Madness 2025.
Who Are Jimmy Rosselli and Griffin Wright?
Meet the Voices Behind the Mic
Jimmy Rosselli, a sophomore from Huntington, New York, handles play-by-play duties, while Griffin Wright, a junior from Richmond, Virginia, provides color commentary. Both are dedicated members of High Point University’s student radio team and lifelong basketball fans. Their decision to film the championship game was a spontaneous one, building on the success of earlier tournament broadcasts streamed on Instagram for friends and family.
Reflections on Going Viral
In a recent FOX8 interview, Rosselli and Wright opened up about their experience. “It was surreal,” Rosselli said, recalling the Panthers’ game-winning run. “Knowing we might go to the NCAA Tournament with them was unreal.” Their genuine passion and unfiltered reactions resonated with viewers, transforming them into unexpected stars of college sports media.
Why Their Radio Call Went Viral
A Perfect Storm of Emotion and Timing
Several elements fueled the viral success of Rosselli and Wright’s broadcast. The game itself was a classic underdog story—High Point, ranked No. 83 by KenPom, isn’t a basketball juggernaut, making their comeback all the more inspiring. The duo’s raw emotion—wide eyes, trembling voices, and spontaneous reactions—added an authentic layer that fans couldn’t resist.
The Role of Social Media
Social media supercharged their moment. After the game, Wright posted a TikTok of their courtside perspective, initially aimed at High Point alumni. The clip quickly snowballed, amassing millions of views and catching the eye of national outlets like The Athletic. Fans hailed it as a quintessential March Madness moment—unscripted, thrilling, and heartfelt.
What’s Next for High Point University and the Viral Duo?
The Panthers’ NCAA Tournament Journey
With Selection Sunday on March 16, 2025, behind them, the High Point Panthers are now preparing for their NCAA Tournament debut. As a potential Cinderella team, they’re ready to make noise in the bracket. Rosselli and Wright will travel with the squad, continuing their roles as student broadcasters and hoping to call more unforgettable moments.
A Bright Future for Rosselli and Wright
Their viral fame has spotlighted High Point University’s student media program, showcasing its talent and potential. Whether they pursue broadcasting professionally or cherish this as a college highlight, Rosselli and Wright have already etched their names into HPU lore.
The Power of College Sports and Social Media
A Story Bigger Than Basketball
The High Point University students’ viral radio call underscores the magic of college sports and the amplifying power of social media. What began as a local broadcast morphed into a national sensation, proving platforms like TikTok and Instagram can elevate grassroots moments to global audiences. For fans, it’s a reminder that March Madness thrives on stories like these—where passion, talent, and timing collide.
Looking Ahead to March Madness 2025
As the NCAA Tournament looms, the spotlight remains on High Point University. Can the Panthers pull off an upset? Will Rosselli and Wright deliver another viral call? One thing is certain: their championship game broadcast has already cemented its place as a standout memory of 2025.
