WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — West Liberty University opened the Atlantic Region Crossover with an 88–72 victory over Edinboro on Friday night at the ASRC. The Hilltoppers led by as many as 14 and controlled the interior throughout the game, outscoring the Fighting Scots 50–32 in the paint while generating 19 points off turnovers.

West Liberty went 17-of-24 from the free-throw line and used its transition offense to create separation, finishing with 21 fast-break points. The Hilltoppers also recorded 11 steals in a balanced defensive effort.

West Liberty set the tone early with 16 first-quarter points in the paint and seven points off turnovers. Anna Lucarelli and Bailee Smith each finished strong around the rim, helping the Hilltoppers take a 24–20 lead after the opening period.

The second quarter belonged to West Liberty, sparked by a key stretch in which Smith scored five straight to build a 33–24 advantage. Lucarelli orchestrated much of the offense, assisting on multiple baskets including a fast-break 3-pointer by Smith that pushed the lead to 40–31. West Liberty outscored Edinboro 25–15 in the frame and carried a 49–35 lead into halftime.

The Hilltoppers weathered an Edinboro push in the third quarter before regaining control with strong defensive plays and transition chances. A 3-pointer by Dria Parker late in the period helped restore momentum, sending West Liberty into the fourth with a 65–53 edge.

Smith opened the final quarter with another 3-pointer, and West Liberty never looked back. Lucarelli's layup at 7:39 extended the margin, and despite a late push from Edinboro, the Hilltoppers maintained command. Smith's 3-pointer with 18 seconds remaining punctuated the 88–72 win.

Smith led all scorers with 32 points and four 3-pointers. Lucarelli added 19 points and seven assists while going 7-for-11 at the line. Ana-Isabel Andersson Rodriguez contributed three steals and five assists, and Katie Lucarelli added eight points and three steals.

West Liberty (1–0) continues Atlantic Region Crossover play on Saturday when it hosts Cal (Pa.) at 6 p.m. in the ASRC.