Drew Edwards hit the game-winning shot with two seconds remaining to hand the Hilltoppers (18-9 overall, 11-4 C-USA) their first home loss in conference play.
Jared Savage and Drew Edwards each exchanged 3-pointers in the last 1:14 of the game to leave it tied at 70-all with 13 seconds remaining.
Charlotte (15-11, 9-6) called timeout once it crossed midcourt with 11 seconds remaining. Jordan Shepherd took it from the top of the key with five seconds remaining, drove right against Hollingsworth and connected with a high layup off the glass with two seconds left.
Charlotte outworked the Hilltoppers with a 34-24 advantage in rebounding and 15-5 edge in second-chance points.