The Fairmont State University men's basketball took a small break in conference play to host Salem University. In game of runs, the Falcons pulled away from the Tigers for the 72-47 win.

From the opening tip-off, it seemed that Fairmont State (11-4) was in for a smooth night from the floor. David Jolinder and Cameron Whiteside combined for the opening eight points before Tommy Williams hit a three to force a Salem (4-11) timeout. The Tigers got on the board but a three from Jolinder and then a put-back slam by Callum Crossman but the Falcons ahead 16-2 with 13:20 left in the first.

Salem tried to chip away at the deficit but was unable to do so as FSU maintained at least a 13-point advantage. In the final minute, Whiteside score four points to give the home side a 38-21 lead going into halftime.

The second half was status quo for the opening four minutes until the Tigers made three-straight threes to be within nine (45-36) with 14:09 left in regulation. However, on two consecutive plays, Zyon Dobbs stole the ball and laid it in to jump start a 13-2 stretch. During that time, Jaidyn West hit two threes to give the home side a 58-38 edge. 

Over the final eight-plus minutes, FSU controlled the game and went on for the 25-point victory at home.

Five different Falcons finished with double-digit points with Williams and Jolinder leading the way with 14. Dobbs added 14 points to go along with five steals, assists and four rebounds. The home side held the advantage in points in the paint (32-14), off turnovers (26-9) and off the bench (19-8).

Fairmont State will hit the road on Saturday, January 20 to face Mountain East foe, Notre Dame (Ohio). Start time is set for 4:00 p.m.