GLENVILLE, W.Va. — The No. 6-ranked West Liberty University men's basketball team secured at least a share of the Mountain East Conference regular-season championship Wednesday night with a 95-80 victory over Glenville State University inside the Waco Center.
West Liberty improves to 22-3 overall and 17-1 in MEC play, claiming at least a portion of the league crown for the ninth straight season. Glenville State falls to 16-9 overall and 10-7 in conference action.
The Hilltoppers set the tone early, erupting for 57 first-half points while building a commanding 18-point halftime advantage. West Liberty's balanced offensive attack featured 44 bench points and 42 points in the paint, overwhelming the Pioneers from the outset.
West Liberty struck first with Cameron Williams knocking down a three-pointer off an assist from Myles Montgomery just seconds into the contest. The Hilltoppers controlled the interior throughout the opening half, pouring in 28 points in the paint while receiving a major lift from their bench unit. A decisive 20-3 run late in the half — capped by a Max Hurray three-pointer at the 1:18 mark — stretched the lead to 57-39 at the break.
The momentum continued into the second half as Montgomery led the charge. He scored on a strong drive at 15:57 and later connected from beyond the arc at 3:11 to keep the Pioneers at bay. West Liberty capitalized on Glenville State turnovers and maintained its advantage through disciplined free-throw shooting and interior finishes. Although the Pioneers produced a 41-point second half, they were unable to overcome the early deficit.
Montgomery paced the Hilltoppers with 24 points, knocking down 7-of-10 free throws and adding six rebounds. Peter Lattos provided an efficient 17 points on 7-of-10 shooting while grabbing eight rebounds. Jamie Muldowney finished with 17 points and nine boards, and Landon Butler chipped in 10 points, converted all four free throws, and recorded two steals.
West Liberty returns home Sunday at 4 p.m. to host Concord University in its final home game of the regular season inside the ASRC, where the Hilltoppers will look to secure the conference championship outright.
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.
