BUCKHANNON, W.Va. — The No.8 West Liberty Hilltoppers men's basketball continued their impressive run Saturday afternoon, rolling to a 110-81 Mountain East Conference victory over the West Virginia Wesleyan Bobcats men's basketball at the Rockefeller Center.
West Liberty improved to 19-3 overall and 14-1 in MEC play, showcasing a balanced offensive effort that featured 13 three-pointers, 23 made free throws, and 48 points in the paint. The Hilltoppers also took full advantage of Wesleyan miscues, converting 21 Bobcat turnovers into 31 points.
The Hilltoppers set the tone early with defensive pressure, forcing nine first-half turnovers that led directly to 21 points. Aiden Davis knocked down a three-pointer just over a minute into the contest, assisted by Hayden Abdullah, to spark the early surge. Cameron Williams provided a steady offensive presence throughout the half, scoring from the perimeter and the free-throw line as West Liberty built a 55-44 halftime advantage.
West Liberty pulled away decisively after the break, opening the second half with a pair of fast-break layups from Williams to extend the lead to 61-44. The Hilltoppers' defense continued to disrupt Wesleyan's rhythm, with Myles Montgomery and Jamie Muldowney coming up with key steals. Terrance Pankey Jr. and Davis added timely baskets, highlighted by a Davis three-pointer with 6:17 remaining, as the visitors maintained control throughout the half. A late three from Cooper Kent capped the scoring as West Liberty cruised to the victory.
Williams led all scorers with 24 points, shooting 7-of-11 from the field and 7-of-11 at the free-throw line, while also handing out five assists and recording four steals. Landon Butler added 20 points on 10-of-17 shooting and grabbed six rebounds. Montgomery finished with 11 points, a team-high five assists, and four steals, while Muldowney recorded a double-double with 10 points and 13 rebounds.
West Liberty returns to action Wednesday, traveling to Frostburg State for a 7:30 p.m. MEC matchup, before returning home next Saturday to host Fairmont State.
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.
