CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Fairmont State (9-3, 4-2 MEC) fell to Charleston (5-6, 2-4 MEC) 85-63 on Saturday at H. Bernard Wehrle Arena.
Fairmont State initiated the first half with strong inside presence, capitalizing on points in the paint to stay competitive.
Rene Diop contributed early with a layup at 17:44, and
Miguel Martinez followed with a fast-break layup, keeping the score tight. Despite challenges from the Golden Eagles' perimeter shooting, the Falcons managed to tie the game twice, leveraging defensive rebounds and second-chance points.
Midway through the half, the Falcons found themselves trailing as Charleston began a series of successful long-range shots.
David Jolinder briefly narrowed the deficit with a layup at 08:03, but Charleston responded with increased pressure, extending their lead with multiple three-pointers. Despite
Joey Brown and
CJ Meredith's efforts to cut the lead with free throws and layups, the Falcons concluded the half trailing 35-21.
The Falcons began the second half with a focus on closing the gap against the Golden Eagles. Despite a series of scoring efforts led by Jolinder and
Drey Carter, who contributed with key layups and free throws, the Falcons faced a challenging defense.
Tyheil Peterson and Meredith capitalized on free throw opportunities, maintaining offensive pressure.
Throughout the half, the Falcons' fast breaks and second-chance points helped them stay competitive. However, Charleston's Braden Chapman and Eli Robertson were effective from beyond the arc, extending their team's advantage. The second half ended with Fairmont State falling 85–63.
Drey Carter scored 15 points and collected seven rebounds, leading the Falcons in free throws with nine conversions. Jolinder added 12 points and grabbed six rebounds, shooting 5-for-12 from the field. Meredith contributed nine points and blocked two shots, providing defensive support. Martinez posted eight points and recorded three rebounds, while adding two assists.
Fairmont State travels to Wheeling University on Wednesday, January 7 to face the Cardinals. Tip-off is slated for 7:00 p.m.
