Institute, W.Va. — West Liberty knocked down 14 three-pointers and received a balanced effort off the bench to power past West Virginia State, 103-82, in Mountain East Conference action Saturday afternoon at the Walker Convocation Center.
The Hilltoppers (16-3, 11-1 MEC) led by 11 at halftime and maintained control throughout the second half. West Liberty's bench accounted for 47 points, while the Hilltoppers forced 16 Yellow Jacket turnovers and converted them into 26 points. West Virginia State (5-14, 2-10 MEC) found success inside with 52 points in the paint but was unable to overcome its turnover struggles.
West Liberty set the tone early with efficient shooting from beyond the arc, highlighted by a 3-pointer from Aiden Davis less than two minutes into the contest. The Hilltoppers quickly built a 12–4 advantage, capitalizing on defensive rebounds and transition opportunities. Cameron Williams capped the first half with a buzzer-beating layup, sending West Liberty into the break with a 54–43 lead.
The Hilltoppers opened the second half with a decisive run. A three-pointer by Myles Montgomery at the 17:34 mark sparked the surge, and baskets from Williams and Terrance Pankey Jr. followed as West Liberty stretched the margin to 71–47 midway through the half. The Hilltoppers remained in control the rest of the way, using strong rebounding and steady interior scoring to close out the victory.
Williams led West Liberty with 16 points, shooting 6-of-7 from the field and adding three free throws. Montgomery finished with 12 points and three steals, while Hayden Abdullah was perfect from the floor, knocking down all five of his field goal attempts—including two from three-point range—and grabbing seven rebounds. Davis added nine points with three 3-pointers and a steal.
West Liberty returns home on Saturday, hosting Charleston in a key Mountain East Conference matchup at 4 p.m. inside the ASRC.
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.
