WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — West Liberty University shook off a halftime deficit and used a dominant second half to defeat Wheeling University, 93-81, Saturday afternoon in Mountain East Conference action at the ASRC.
The Hilltoppers (15-3, 10-1 MEC) outscored the Cardinals (11-6, 6-4 MEC) 55-42 after intermission, earning their fifth victory in just 10 days. West Liberty fueled the win with 28 fast-break points and 39 points from the bench, while overcoming Wheeling's 46 points in the paint.
West Liberty wasted little time setting the tempo, as Myles Montgomery opened the scoring with a layup just 18 seconds into the game. Landon Butler followed with a fast-break bucket to give the Hilltoppers a quick 4-0 advantage. The teams traded leads throughout a tightly contested first half, highlighted by Jamie Muldowney's three-pointer at the 6:06 mark that put West Liberty ahead 24-20.
The Hilltopper bench made its presence felt, accounting for 17 first-half points, including a timely three-pointer from Terrance Pankey Jr. at 5:33. Wheeling closed the half with momentum, however, reclaiming the lead on Ayden Goll's three with 38 seconds remaining to take a 39-38 edge into the break.
West Liberty took control early in the second half, sparked by a Cameron Williams three-pointer at 8:10 and a strong stretch at the free-throw line. Defensive plays by Muldowney and Montgomery helped maintain momentum, while the Hilltoppers steadily built separation with efficient shooting and transition offense.
The Hilltoppers' 55-point second half proved decisive as they pulled away late to secure the 93-81 win.
Montgomery led West Liberty with 18 points, nine rebounds, six assists, and two steals. Williams poured in a game-high 21 points, connecting on four three-pointers and seven free throws. Muldowney added 17 points, three three-pointers, and six rebounds, while Dante Spadafora chipped in 12 points, knocking down 7-of-8 free throws.
West Liberty returns to action Wednesday, traveling to West Virginia State for another key Mountain East Conference matchup.
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.
