SALEM, W.Va. — Fairmont State (13-3) defeated Salem (1-13), 75-55, at T. Edward Davis Gymnasium, aided by a 34-12 advantage in points off turnovers.
Fairmont State opened the game with a strong defensive effort, converting Salem's early turnovers into points.
Haylen Cook's assist led to
Leila Jones' 3-pointer at 9:41, sparking a run that included multiple fast-break layups. The Falcons capitalized on the Tigers' 11 turnovers, building a 16-point lead midway through the quarter.
Gabby Reep contributed significantly with steals and assists, including a fast-break layup that extended the lead. The Falcons led 29-14 at the end of the first quarter.
The Falcons maintained their edge in the second quarter with a key 3-pointer by Reep at 4:17, extending their lead to 36–20.
Alanna Tate contributed significantly with a block at 8:46 and a layup at 8:24, pushing the score to 31–14. Despite a series of turnovers, the Falcons held strong defensively, limiting the Tigers to eight points in the quarter. The quarter concluded with the Falcons leading 38–22.
Fairmont State made a decisive push in the third quarter, highlighted by a 9–0 run that extended their lead significantly. Tate contributed a crucial three-pointer at 9:03, and Jones added a three-point shot at 3:38, with Reep assisting both plays. The Falcons capitalized on the Tigers' turnovers, forcing eight in the quarter while maintaining pressure on defense. The quarter ended with the Falcons leading 62–37, heading into the final quarter with a commanding advantage.
The Falcons solidified their lead with a decisive performance in the fourth quarter, maintaining control despite a tighter scoring frame.
Zaniya Murray contributed effectively with both a defensive rebound and a free throw, helping the Falcons sustain their advantage. Tate also added a crucial layup at the 7:04 mark, reinforcing their position.
Although the Tigers managed to outscore the Falcons 18-13 in the quarter, the Falcons' earlier lead remained insurmountable.
Amiel Jones's three-pointer at 5:25 extended the Falcons' margin, ensuring the victory. The game concluded with the Falcons ahead, securing a 75-55 win.
Tate scored 15 points and recorded two blocks, leading Fairmont State in both categories. Reep added 11 points and posted seven assists. Cook collected six rebounds and tallied four steals.
Ryan Davis finished with 12 points and one block.
Fairmont State welcomes Davis & Elkins College on Wednesday, January 21. Game time is slated for 5:30 p.m.
