WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — West Liberty delivered an offensive showcase Monday night, rolling to a 108–84 Mountain East Conference victory over West Virginia State inside the ASRC.
The Hilltoppers (13-3, 8-1 MEC) shot efficiently all night, knocking down 16 three-pointers while assisting on 24 of their 40 made field goals. West Liberty's depth was on full display as the bench accounted for 52 points, while defensive pressure forced 23 Yellow Jacket turnovers and produced 12 steals. West Virginia State (5-11, 2-7 MEC) countered with 48 points in the paint, but could not keep pace with the Hilltoppers' perimeter shooting and tempo.
West Liberty wasted little time setting the tone, as Cameron Williams drilled a three-pointer just 18 seconds into the contest off an assist from Myles Montgomery. The Hilltoppers followed with additional triples from Montgomery, Landon Butler, and Aiden Davis to open up a 14–5 lead less than four minutes in.
The Yellow Jackets attempted to settle in offensively, but West Liberty continued to stretch the margin with timely shooting and ball movement. Davis and Dante Spadafora connected from beyond the arc late in the half, allowing the Hilltoppers to carry a 50–42 advantage into the break.
Momentum stayed firmly with West Liberty to open the second half. Montgomery opened the period with a three-pointer at the 19:52 mark, and Hayden Abdullah followed moments later with another long-range shot to push the lead into double figures. The Hilltoppers capitalized on turnovers and controlled the glass defensively, fueling a fast-paced attack that kept West Virginia State on its heels.
Terrance Pankey Jr. added a layup during a decisive second-half run, while West Liberty's defense limited the Yellow Jackets' efficiency despite their interior scoring. The Hilltoppers outscored the visitors 58–42 after halftime to pull away for the 108–84 win.
Spadafora led the way with 16 points on an efficient 6-of-7 shooting night, including four three-pointers, and added three steals. Davis finished with 12 points, four made threes, and seven rebounds. Muldowney chipped in 13 points, seven rebounds, and two steals, while Butler added nine points and seven assists.
West Liberty returns to action Wednesday night, traveling to Pittsburgh to face Point Park at 7:30 p.m.
West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students' aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.
