Aug. 22. By Kyle Moxon. The Hough Huskies open their 2025 season tonight on their biggest stage yet — Bank of America Stadium — as part of the Carolina Panthers’ Keep Pounding High School Classic. They face South Pointe High of Rock Hill, South Carolina, a perennial state-title contender known for speed and physicality.

The matchup brings playoff-level intensity to Week 1 and sets the tone for Hough’s demanding schedule. A win would show the Huskies are chasing more than just a conference title this season.

For Hough, it’s more than a season opener — it’s a chance to make a statement against a top-tier out-of-state opponent. Senior receiver Tyran Evans and quarterback Ethan Royal lead the offense, while defenders Samari Matthews and Chris Hilliard will try to slow South Pointe’s explosive playmakers.

The Huskies enter the season with championship hopes after falling to Grimsley in each of the past three postseasons.

“I thought last season was our year to reach the state championship, but we had some late mishaps and they beat us,” head coach DeShawn Baker said. Baker is in his third season at Hough with a 23-4 record.

“Coming off that, we expect our guys to be ready. We have the talent, but we have to minimize mistakes, stay healthy and be ready for a long season,” he said. “I’m excited to see where this team goes.”

The Keep Pounding High School Classic is a season-opening doubleheader, with Hough vs. South Pointe at 4 p.m. and Grimsley vs. West Charlotte at 8 p.m.

Tickets cost $8 each and are available at the stadium or in advance at https://www.panthers.com/kpclassic. Check out the Hough pregame hype video here.