West Liberty, W.Va. – The No. 7 West Liberty University men's basketball team snapped a two-game skid with an emphatic 103-87 victory over No. 9 Fairmont State on Saturday in front of a lively ASRC crowd. The win was No. 199 in coach Ben Howlett's career.
The Hilltoppers (12-2, 6-1 MEC) wasted no time asserting control, opening the game with a 24-8 run by the 13:20 mark. West Liberty's offense was clicking on all cylinders in the first half, shooting 60% from the floor, including a scorching 52.9% from beyond the arc (9-of-17), to take a 51-38 lead into the locker room.
Fairmont State (12-2, 7-1 MEC) attempted a second-half rally, cutting the deficit to nine points at 65-56 with 14:57 remaining. However, the Hilltoppers responded with a quick 12-4 spurt, rebuilding their lead to 17 at 77-60 and maintaining control the rest of the way.
Top Performers
West Liberty showcased its trademark unselfish play, finishing with 26 assists on 36 made field goals. The Hilltoppers shot 55.4% from the field and 48.1% from three-point range for the game.
The win improves West Liberty's record to 12-2 overall and 6-1 in Mountain East Conference play. The Hilltoppers will be back in action Wednesday at 7:30 p.m., hosting Concord at the ASRC.
Game Details
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Final Score: No. 7 West Liberty 103, No. 9 Fairmont State 87
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Venue: ASRC
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Attendance: 782
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Records: FSU (12-2, 7-1 MEC), WLU (12-2, 6-1 MEC)
