WHEELING, W.Va. – In an instant classic, top-seeded West Liberty fell just short in a grueling triple-overtime battle against No. 2 seed Fairmont State, losing 122-114 in the Mountain East Conference Championship game on Sunday at WesBanco Arena.

The high-octane matchup featured 13 ties and 13 lead changes, with both teams trading blows in a game that lived up to its championship billing. West Liberty (27-4) held an 11-point lead in the second half, but Fairmont State (27-4) fought back behind an explosive offensive performance, eventually sealing the victory with a decisive 6-0 run in the final 1:28 of the third overtime.

Back-and-Forth Regulation

The first half saw West Liberty trail by as many as 13, yet they still held a narrow 44-43 lead at the break. Both teams kept pace in the second half, as Fairmont State's hot shooting (54.3% from the field, 57.1% from three) countered West Liberty's tenacious effort that saw the game tied at 86 after regulation. 

Overtime Drama Unfolds

A late basket by the Hilltoppers gave them a 104-102 lead with 31 seconds left in the second overtime, but Fairmont State responded to force triple overtime.

The first two overtime periods saw the teams match each other shot-for-shot, as neither squad could pull away. West Liberty's Kyler D'Augustino hit a clutch three-pointer with 1:56 remaining in the third overtime to keep hopes alive, but Fairmont State's Tyheil Peterson delivered the dagger—scoring a layup with 10 seconds left.

Standout Performances

West Liberty's offense was fueled by Lanyc Shuler (23 points, 5 assists) and Kyler D'Augustino (20 points, 6 rebounds). Finley Woodward contributed 19 points and 8 assists, while JJ Harper added 20 points and 8 rebounds.

Fairmont State was led by Seth Emich's 24 points (7-11 FG, 4-5 3FG), while Davon Fitzgibbons III poured in 26 points, including five three-pointers. Peterson finished with 20 points and made crucial plays down the stretch.

Key Stats

• Fairmont State shot 57.1% from three-point range, hitting 16-of-28 attempts.

• West Liberty struggled from deep in overtime, making just 3-of-11 attempts.

• Fairmont State dominated the glass, out rebounding West Liberty 57-39.

• West Liberty forced 17 steals and scored 27 points off turnovers.