WHEELING, W.Va. — No.6 West Liberty saw a five-point halftime lead slip away Saturday afternoon as Wheeling rallied for a 93-91 victory inside the Alma McDonough Center.
The Hilltoppers (24-4, 18-2 MEC) received 36 points from their bench and shot the ball efficiently for much of the afternoon, but the Cardinals (19-8, 14-6 MEC) capitalized on second-chance opportunities, scoring 15 points off offensive rebounds to secure the narrow win. Wheeling outscored West Liberty by seven in the second half to complete the comeback.
West Liberty came out firing in the opening half. Hayden Abdullah knocked down a three-pointer just 15 seconds into the game, setting the tone for an offensive showcase. The Hilltoppers connected on 17-of-29 field goal attempts in the first half, including seven shots from beyond the arc.
Jamie Muldowney sparked the offense with multiple three-pointers, helping West Liberty maintain control throughout much of the opening period. The Hilltoppers consistently answered every Wheeling push and carried a 43-38 advantage into the break.
West Liberty extended its lead early in the second half. Cameron Williams converted three consecutive free throws at the 18:48 mark, pushing the advantage to nine. Moments later, Aiden Davis buried a three-pointer off an assist from Myles Montgomery to stretch the lead to 51-42.
Wheeling gradually chipped away at the deficit, setting up a dramatic final minute. A late three-pointer by Ayden Goll cut into the Hilltopper lead before the Cardinals took control at the foul line. Free throws from Goll and Caleb Murray in the closing seconds gave Wheeling its first lead of the final stretch and ultimately sealed the 93-91 decision.
Muldowney paced West Liberty with 30 points, knocking down six three-pointers in a standout performance. Montgomery added 14 points and two steals, while Williams finished with 13 points, six made free throws and four steals. Abdullah contributed 11 points and a block on the defensive end.
West Liberty will now shift its attention to postseason play as the Hilltoppers prepare for the Mountain East Conference Quarterfinals next Friday at 6 p.m. inside WesBanco Arena in Wheeling.
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.
