PEPPER PIKE, Ohio — West Liberty earned an 87–81 road win over Ursuline College on Wednesday night at the Jane and Lee Seidman Gymnasium, maintaining control for nearly the entire game and turning defense into offense at key moments. The Hilltoppers capitalized on the Arrows' 21 turnovers, converting them into 23 points while dominating the paint with a 44–32 scoring advantage inside. A strong third-quarter surge proved decisive as West Liberty held off a late push from Ursuline to secure the victory.
West Liberty wasted no time building momentum, racing out to a 10–0 lead just two minutes into the game. Ana-Isabel Andersson opened the scoring with two free throws, then found Bailee Smith for a 3-pointer on the next possession. Smith drilled another triple moments later off another Andersson assist, giving the Hilltoppers early control. Ursuline began to chip away late in the quarter, but Halley Smith's fastbreak layup with 1:45 remaining helped West Liberty maintain a 25–20 lead after 10 minutes.
The Hilltoppers extended the lead in the second quarter with another 10–0 run, fueled by relentless defensive pressure and efficient playmaking. Jameka Brungard's layup at the 7:15 mark—set up once again by Andersson—kickstarted the stretch, followed by key free throws moments later. Ursuline kept the contest within reach, but West Liberty's steady execution, highlighted by an Anna Lucarelli layup at 3:29, sent the Hilltoppers into halftime up 42–35.
West Liberty delivered its strongest offensive burst in the third quarter. Smith caught fire from beyond the arc, draining back-to-back threes at 9:37 and 9:03 to build separation. Andersson continued her well-rounded performance with rebounds and assists, while Lucarelli added a jumper in the lane as the Hilltoppers kept the Arrows at bay. With efficient ball movement and timely perimeter shooting, West Liberty pushed the lead to 70–58 heading into the final quarter.
Ursuline made one final run, but the Hilltoppers stayed composed down the stretch. Smith ignited a key sequence with a layup at 7:11, and West Liberty continued to capitalize on turnovers and free-throw opportunities. Andersson knocked down crucial free throws late, and the Hilltopper defense held strong as Ursuline attempted to rally. West Liberty ultimately closed out the 87–81 win.
Smith led the way with a game-high 32 points, knocking down five 3-pointers. Lucarelli contributed 17 points, going 7-of-12 at the free-throw line and pulling down nine rebounds. Andersson added 11 points and five assists, while Brungard finished with 12 points and nine rebounds.
West Liberty now looks to carry its momentum into another road matchup, visiting Pitt-Johnstown on Saturday at 1 p.m.
