WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — Fairmont State University (18-6, 12-5 MEC) fell to West Liberty University (8-16, 5-12 MEC), 81-68, as the home team capitalized on 16 three-pointers and 29 points off turnovers.

The game began with Fairmont State establishing an early presence in the paint, as Zaniya Murray scored the opening basket with a layup at 9:14. Fairmont State briefly held the lead multiple times, with contributions from Alanna Tate, who completed a 3-point play to put them ahead 7–6 at 6:10. However, the Falcons struggled with turnovers, which the Hilltoppers capitalized on to pull ahead. At the end of the first quarter, the Falcons trailed the Hilltoppers, 18–15.

Fairmont State edged ahead in the second quarter with a crucial 3-pointer by Gabby Reep at 7:15, shifting momentum in its favor. Leila Jones contributed with a fast-break 3-pointer at 4:58 after a steal by Tate, giving Fairmont State another lead. Despite several lead changes, Despite outscoring the Hilltoppers in the second period, the home team led 40-38 at the half.

The Falcons struggled to maintain momentum in the third quarter, despite efforts from Reep and Tate. Reep hit a 3-pointer at 5:44, and Tate added a layup at 5:07, but turnovers kept plaguing the team. The Hilltoppers capitalized on their own three-point shooting to extend the lead. The quarter concluded with Fairmont State trailing 61–50.

The Falcons made a push in the fourth with a strong sequence of plays, including a fastbreak layup by Murray at 4:51, which cut the margin to 73–59. The Falcons continued to press as Reep contributed with a layup and free throws, helping narrow the gap further. Despite their efforts, the Hilltoppers' did not fade and maintained the advantage. The game concluded with the Hilltoppers securing an 81–68 victory.

Reep scored 24 points, recorded four steals, and added eight rebounds. Jones collected nine rebounds and scored eight points. Tate contributed 12 points and two steals.

Fairmont State stays on the road to face Point Park University on Wednesday, February 18. Game time is set for 5:30 p.m.