SPARKILL, N.Y. — Fairmont State (8-1) secured a 73-65 victory over St. Thomas Aquinas (6-5) on Tuesday afternoon at Aquinas Hall. The Falcons capitalized on fast-break opportunities, scoring 23 points in transition, while also dominating the paint with 44 points.

Fairmont State opened the first half with a series of effective plays, focusing on points in the paint and capitalizing on turnovers. A key moment occurred when Rene Diop's layup at 17:45 put the Falcons on the board, initiating a recovery from an early deficit. The visitors demonstrated strong defensive pressure, forcing 10 turnovers and converting them into fast break opportunities, including a layup by Zycheus Dobbs at 10:18 that narrowed the score gap to 20–18.

As the half progressed, the Falcons continued to apply pressure with aggressive rebounding and effective scoring from the bench, notably gaining momentum with Drey Carter's layup at 1:22, which reclaimed a narrow lead. The half concluded with David Jolinder's fast break layup and free throw in the final 40 seconds, extending the Falcons' advantage to 37–33 at the close of the half.

Fairmont State began the second half with a strong drive, as Jolinder scored off a layup assisted by Dobbs. The team maintained momentum with a series of fast breaks, including back-to-back layups by Carter, both assisted by Dobbs, and a three-pointer by Miguel Martinez, widening the gap.

As the half progressed, the Falcons capitalized on defensive rebounds and continued to expand their lead, with Jaidyn West hitting a three-pointer at 15:52. Despite turnovers, the Falcons held strong on the boards, finishing with 27 total rebounds, including 19 on defense.

In the closing minutes, the Falcons maintained their advantage, converting crucial free throws and breaking through the Spartans' defense. Dobbs added a point from the line with 17 seconds left, sealing the win. The game ended with Fairmont State getting the road win, 73–65.

Carter scored 21 points and collected nine rebounds, leading the team in scoring. Dobbs recorded eight assists and three steals, while Martinez added 16 points, converting six of eight free throws.

Fairmont State returns home to face Concord University on Saturday, December 20. Game time is slated for 4:00 p.m.