FAIRMONT, W.Va. — Fairmont State (12-3, 7-2 MEC) dominated Point Park (3-10, 2-7 MEC) with a 97-57 victory at Joe Retton Arena. Fairmont State connected on 16 three-pointers and forced 14 turnovers, resulting in 23 points.
Fairmont State set the tone early in the first half, with
CJ Meredith opening the scoring with a jumper in the paint. The team established momentum through a series of strong plays, including a 3-pointer by
Miguel Martinez at 18:03, assisted by
Rene Diop. Martinez continued to contribute significantly, scoring multiple 3-pointers, and
Zycheus Dobbs added to the lead with a layup and a pair of free throws.
Defensively, the Falcons made key stops and forced several turnovers, highlighted by steals from Martinez and Meredith. The team capitalized on the Pioneers' errors, converting them into fast-break points. The half closed with the Falcons extending their lead as
David Jolinder hit a 3-pointer with one second left, ending the half with a 51–25 advantage.
Fairmont State opened the second half with a strong offensive push, including a tip-in by Diop at 19:23 to maintain momentum. Jolinder capitalized on an opponent turnover with a fast-break dunk at 18:20, pushing the lead further. The Falcons extended their advantage with consistent scoring in the paint, as evidenced by layups from Diop and
Joey Brown, while maintaining defensive pressure.
Throughout the half, the Falcons showcased effective teamwork, highlighted by Martinez's assists and Brown's defensive rebounds. The team used a combination of fast breaks and three-pointers to extend their lead. The game concluded with the Falcons firmly in control, outscoring the Pioneers 46–32, and finishing with a substantial lead of 97–57.
Jolinder scored 22 points, converting all four of his 3-point attempts, and recorded two steals. Martinez also tallied 22 points, hitting six 3-pointers and adding two steals. Dobbs contributed with six assists and collected six rebounds. Diop added eight points and led the team with seven rebounds while also blocking two shots.
Fairmont State hits the road for a non-conference matchup at Salem University on Saturday, January 17. Start time is set for 4:00 p.m.