FAIRMONT, W.Va. — Fairmont State (1-0, 0-0 MEC) secured a decisive victory over Bloomsburg (0-1, 0-0 PSAC) with a 98-56 win at Joe Retton Arena. The Falcons capitalized on the Huskies' 26 turnovers, scoring 40 points off turnovers.
Fairmont State opened the first half assertively, establishing control with a series of fastbreaks and strong play in the paint.
Rene Diop's layup off a
Drey Carter assist at 18:43 set the tone early, contributing to the Falcons' rapid 6–0 start. The home team capitalized on the Huskies' turnovers, with
David Jolinder's dunk at 15:17 pushing the lead further.
CJ Meredith's three-pointer at 1:20 extended the margin to 50–26, showcasing a balanced attack with support from
Miguel Martinez, who had multiple assists throughout the half. Fairmont State concluded the half with a dominant 52–29 edge, fueled by efficient shooting and a high-pressure defense that forced Bloomsburg into 17 turnovers.
Fairmont State extended their lead with a dominant stretch starting at 18:48 when Diop's jumper and free throw completed a three-point play, pushing the scoreboard to 55–29. The Falcons showcased efficiency, hitting 16 of their 28 shots and maintaining a strong defensive presence with seven steals and two blocks, while capitalizing on 13 points off turnovers.
Bloomsburg struggled to regain footing, with the Falcons sustaining their momentum through the half, highlighted by a fast break layup from
Anthony Spatafore at 2:17 that contributed to a 46-point quarter. The game concluded with Fairmont St. securing a decisive 98–56 victory.
Meredith led with 15 points, converting 4 of 6 from beyond the arc and adding two blocks. Carter contributed 14 points, hitting 8 of 10 free throws and recording five assists.
Tyheil Peterson was perfect from the field with 12 points, including two 3-pointers and three steals. Jolinder added 10 points, going 6 for 6 from the free-throw line and collecting five steals.
Fairmont State concludes the Joe Retton Classic on Sunday, November 15 against Edinboro University. Game time is set for 8:00 p.m.
