WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. – The West Liberty University men's basketball team returns home Saturday afternoon to renew its long-standing rivalry with Wheeling University in a Mountain East Conference showdown set for 2 p.m. at the ASRC.
The Hilltoppers enter the weekend with a 14-3 overall record and a MEC-best 9-1 mark, riding a four-game winning streak and continuing to establish themselves as one of the most explosive teams in Division II. West Liberty owns a 102-70 all-time advantage in the series and has dominated recent meetings, winning five straight and 15 of the last 16 against the Cardinals. Wheeling's last victory in the series came on Jan. 21, 2023 (114-107), while its last win at the ASRC was Feb. 24, 2018 (84-74).
West Liberty leads the Mountain East Conference—and ranks among the national leaders—in scoring at 97.1 points per game, while posting a league-best +16.7 scoring margin. The Hilltoppers shoot 48.9 percent from the field, average 10.2 three-pointers per game, and thrive on pressure defense, forcing 22.0 turnovers per contest while ranking second nationally in steals per game (13.2).
Balance continues to be the hallmark of the Black and Gold, with nine players averaging 7.0 points or more.
Wheeling comes to West Liberty at 11-5 overall and 6-3 in conference play, currently fourth in the MEC standings. The Cardinals average 86.3 points per game, ranking fifth in the league, and feature a balanced offensive attack led by Ayden Goll (17.7 ppg), Caleb Murray (13.4) and Tee Harris Jr. (11.7). Wheeling is also one of the league's top shot-blocking teams, averaging 4.3 blocks per game.
Saturday's matchup features two of the MEC's most efficient offenses, but West Liberty's tempo, depth, and ability to force turnovers have proven decisive throughout conference play. With the ASRC remaining a fortress this season, the Hilltoppers will look to extend their winning streak and maintain their position atop the Mountain East standings.
At half time the 2011 Final Four Team (first in school history) and the 2016 Final Four Team will be honored as part of alumni day.
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.
