FAIRMONT, W.Va. — Fairmont State University (15-4, 9-3 MEC) fell to Glenville State University (16-3, 11-2 MEC), 79-71, in a tense matchup at Joe Retton Arena. The Falcons forced 30 turnovers and scored 44 points in the paint, but the Pioneers secured the win with a 26-of-35 performance from the free-throw line.

The game commenced with the Falcons seizing an early advantage through a quick steal by Haylen Cook, leading to a fast-break layup by Zaniya Murray. The Falcons maintained a strong presence in the paint with 14 points, benefiting from an aggressive defense that resulted in five steals. The Pioneers responded with three successful 3-pointers, keeping the game tight.

Despite the Falcons' efficient field goal shooting, converting 50% of their attempts, the Pioneers managed to close the gap with late free throws by Khalia Bryant, giving them a narrow 20–19 lead at the end of the first quarter.

Fairmont State rallied midway through the second quarter, overcoming a deficit with a series of key plays. Cook's tip-in at 8:25 gave the Falcons a brief lead, showcasing their ability to capitalize on offensive rebounds. Ryan Davis contributed significantly, scoring multiple times in the paint, including a jumper at 2:32 that closed the gap. Despite the effort, the Pioneers maintained a slight edge, ending the quarter ahead 38-36.

The Falcons began the third quarter by overcoming an early deficit, with Gabby Reep's layup at 9:12 tying the score at 40. Cook's successful free throw at 6:48 gave the Falcons a brief lead, but turnovers and fouls allowed the Pioneers to regain control. Despite Cook's 3-pointer at 1:23 reducing the gap to 58–56, the Falcons could not close the deficit. The quarter ended with both teams scoring 20 points, and the Pioneers maintaining a slim lead at 58–56.

The Falcons surged early in the fourth quarter with a jumper by Leila Jones at 9:19, narrowing the gap to two points. Cook's defensive effort at 8:56, stealing after a Pioneers' turnover, was followed by a timeout, but the Pioneers managed to maintain their lead. The Falcons continued to battle, with Ryan Davis converting a layup at 7:17 to keep the team within striking distance.

Despite the Falcons' efforts, including a late 3-pointer by Jones at the 29-second mark, the Pioneers extended their lead through consistent free throw shooting. The Falcons closed the quarter with a flurry of attempts but ultimately fell short. The game concluded with the Pioneers securing a 79-71 victory.

Gabby Reep scored 16 points and recorded three steals. Cook added 17 points, converting 6 of 10 free throws and collecting four steals. Murray posted eight rebounds and two steals. Jones contributed 12 points and four steals.

Fairmont State remains home on Wednesday, Feburary 4 against the University of Charleston. Game time is slated for 5:30 p.m.