FAIRMONT, W.Va. — Fairmont State (24-4, 17-3 MEC) defeated Frostburg State (14-14, 10-10 MEC) 92-78 at Joe Retton Arena on Saturday. The home team dominated the boards with 53 rebounds, including 25 on the offensive end, and added 46 points in the paint to secure the win.
Fairmont State began the first half with a quick block by
Rene Diop, setting a defensive tone early.
Tyheil Peterson and
Drey Carter led the offense, with Peterson hitting multiple 3-pointers and Carter contributing with assists and points in the paint. The team capitalized on second-chance opportunities with 11 offensive rebounds, leading to several scores.
The home team maintained momentum with a series of successful fast breaks and bench contributions, outscoring the Bobcats in bench points 16–0. The Falcons' defensive efforts included two blocks and two steals, limiting Frostburg State to only one successful 3-pointer in the half. The half concluded with Fairmont State ahead 49–34, establishing a solid lead going into the second half.
Fairmont State started the second half maintaining its lead, but Frostburg State made a push early with Kyle Whippen's layups, cutting the deficit. However, Fairmont State responded with a series of successful plays, including a 3-pointer from
Miguel Martinez and strong performances by
Drey Carter and
Zycheus Dobbs, which kept the lead intact.
As the half progressed, Fairmont State extended its advantage with contributions from multiple players.
Rene Diop and
Joey Brown added key points in the paint, while
Tyheil Peterson was efficient from the free-throw line. Despite Frostburg State's attempts to close the gap, the Falcons held firm, holding the 14-point advantage.
Carter led with a standout performance, scoring 27 points and securing 13 rebounds. Peterson added 16 points, converting three 3-pointers and distributing seven assists. Dobbs contributed with 11 points with nine rebounds. Martinez was effective beyond the arc, making four 3-pointers to finish with 12 points.
Fairmont State is the second-seed in the Mountain East Conference Tournament and will face either Frostburg State or West Virginia State on Friday, March 6. Game time from WesBanco Arena is set for 12:00 p.m.