SALEM, W.Va. — West Liberty University used a dominant defensive effort and balanced offensive attack to roll past Salem University, 87-46, Wednesday evening inside T. Edward Davis Gymnasium.
With the win, West Liberty improves to 10-17 overall.
The Hilltoppers controlled the game from the opening possession, forcing 14 turnovers and converting them into 24 points while scoring 40 points in the paint. Salem struggled to find rhythm offensively, connecting on just one of 10 attempts from beyond the arc and shooting 46 total points for the game.
West Liberty wasted no time establishing control. Olivia Baker knocked down back-to-back three-pointers in the opening minute, both assisted by Anna Lucarelli, to spark an early surge. Ana-Isabel Andersson added a steal and fast-break layup as the Hilltoppers built momentum.
Reagan Vinskovich added four early points in the paint, and West Liberty's defense limited Salem to 17 first-quarter points, taking a 29-17 lead after one.
The Hilltoppers opened the second quarter on a 9-0 run, highlighted by four points inside from Vinskovich. Katie Lucarelli stretched the lead with a three-pointer midway through the quarter, while Baker connected again from deep to keep the pressure on.
West Liberty's ball movement and interior presence proved decisive, as the visitors carried a 52-31 advantage into halftime.
The Hilltoppers tightened the screws in the third quarter, allowing just six Salem points. Andersson opened the half with a three-pointer, and Vinskovich controlled the paint with key rebounds, blocks and interior finishes.
West Liberty outscored Salem 18-6 in the period, extending the lead to 70-37 entering the final frame.
West Liberty put the game out of reach early in the fourth with an 8-0 run fueled by Baker's consecutive three-pointers. Vinskovich added two more layups, while Andersson connected from long range to cap the offensive surge.
The Hilltoppers limited Salem to nine points in the final quarter to secure the 87-46 victory.
West Liberty closes out the regular season Saturday with a 2 p.m. road matchup at Wheeling University.
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.
