WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — A dominant fourth quarter propelled West Liberty to a 71–50 win over Salem University on Wednesday night inside the ASRC. The Hilltoppers erupted for 25 points in the final period while holding the Tigers to just 4-of-22 shooting, turning a close game into a decisive nonconference victory.

Despite some turnover issues early, West Liberty controlled the tempo through transition play, outscoring Salem 15–0 on fast breaks and winning the battle on the glass, 43–38. The Tigers struggled to find rhythm offensively, connecting on only 2-of-12 from three-point range.

West Liberty opened with steady execution in the first quarter. A 3-pointer from Katie Lucarelli tied the game midway through the period, and a steal from Dria Parker fueled additional momentum. Late threes and free throws from Anna Lucarelli helped push the Hilltoppers ahead 21–17 after one.

The second quarter featured efficient interior scoring and timely free throws. Jameka Brungard finished through contact at 7:15 to keep WLU in front, while Halley Smith added two free throws to extend the lead at 3:21. Salem trimmed the margin before halftime, but the Hilltoppers maintained a 30–27 edge at the break.

Smith set the tone early in the third quarter with a 3-pointer and a layup, and West Liberty continued to attack the paint, scoring 10 points inside during the period. Ana-Isabel Andersson buried a key three at 3:06, helping WLU outscore Salem 16–11 and enter the fourth up comfortably.

The Hilltoppers took complete control in the final frame. A quick 3-pointer from Katie Lucarelli sparked the quarter, and West Liberty's defensive pressure stifled the Tigers. Andersson delivered a three and a layup on back-to-back possessions, and the Hilltoppers capitalized on turnovers to steadily extend the advantage. Brungard's work on the glass—highlighted by several crucial defensive rebounds—closed out the game.

Four Hilltoppers finished in double figures.

Anna Lucarelli led the way with 18 points, nine rebounds, and three assists.

Jameka Brungard posted a dominant double-double: 17 points, 20 rebounds, three blocks, and three steals.

Ana-Isabel Andersson added 13 points and four assists.

Katie Lucarelli contributed eight points, five assists, and two blocks.

West Liberty now turns its attention to Mountain East Conference play, hosting Point Park on Saturday at 2 p.m. in the ASRC.