**NCAA Tournament Hero Points Fans To Jesus With Jersey, Shoes And Online Posts**
In a March Madness spectacle that will be remembered for years to come, No. 12 High Point University pulled off the most electrifying upset of the tournament’s opening round, toppling No. 5 Wisconsin in a nail-biting 83-82 finish. While the game itself was a masterclass in heart and determination, the real story emerged from the hero of the hour: Chase Johnston.
With the clock ticking down and the game on the line, Johnston drove to the basket for a fast-break layup—his first 2-point field goal of the entire season—securing the lead for the Panthers and sealing a historic victory. But for Johnston, the spotlight offered by the national stage was never about his own glory; it was a platform to point a massive audience toward Jesus Christ.
Eagle-eyed fans noted that Johnston’s footwear bore the inscription "Acts 20:24," a reference to the Apostle Paul’s commitment to finish his race and testify to the Gospel of God's grace. Furthermore, Johnston’s choice of jersey number—a highly unorthodox #99—has become a conversation piece that goes far beyond the hardwood.
During a post-game interview with High Point broadcaster Brian Hanway, Johnston explained that the number was a deliberate choice to share his faith.
"The backstory has everything to do with Jesus leaving the ninety-nine to find the one," Johnston explained. "I was trying to find any way to share The Gospel. [Jesus] finds more joy in finding that one lost sheep that came back home than the ninety-nine that remained righteous. That's The Gospel right there."
The symbolism did not go unnoticed during the TBS broadcast. While the network’s commentary team attempted to connect the dots, their attempt at theological storytelling provided a surreal moment for viewers. As Johnston hit the go-ahead bucket, the announcers likened him to the "lost sheep" found in the biblical parables of Luke 15 and Matthew 18, framing the athletic feat as an illustration of the shepherd’s persistent love.
In an era where many athletes use their platform to amplify secular social causes, Johnston’s bold, unapologetic stance serves as a refreshing reminder of the power of faith in sports. Whether through the ink on his shoes, the number on his back, or the words from his mouth, Johnston has ensured that the "Big Dance" became a stage for something far greater than basketball.
For the High Point guard, the NCAA Tournament provided a mission field, and he didn't miss his shot.
