FAIRMONT, W.Va. — Fairmont State (16-4, 10-3 MEC) defeated Charleston (13-8, 10-4 MEC), 76-64, at Joe Retton Arena, capitalizing on 12 steals and forcing 24 turnovers.

Fairmont State began the first quarter with a strong defensive effort, forcing Charleston into 12 turnovers. Despite an early deficit, the Falcons tied the game at 5–5 with a layup from Zaniya Murray at 4:58. Gabby Reep's layup at 4:31 gave the Falcons the lead, which they maintained for the remainder of the quarter. A critical 3-pointer by Alanna Tate at 2:07 and her subsequent jumper and free throw in the final minute helped Fairmont St. edge ahead. The quarter ended with the Falcons leading 13–12.

Fairmont State gained momentum early in the second quarter with a strong showing by Reep, who opened with a 3-pointer assisted by Tate at 9:49. Reep continued to drive the offense, assisting on a layup by Ryan Davis and another 3-pointer by Hadley Horne, establishing a 21–12 lead. The Golden Eagles responded with a series of 3-pointers, tying the score at 21–21 by 5:28. Despite this, the Falcons regained control, with Leila Jones' three-pointer and solid free-throw shooting extending their lead. Reep's jumper in the final seconds secured a 36–33 advantage at the end of the quarter. The quarter concluded with a 23–21 score in favor of Fairmont State, bringing the game score to 36–33.

The Falcons opened the third quarter with a strong showing, marked by Haylen Cook's 3-pointer at 9:13, assisted by Reep, extending their lead to 41–33. Jones contributed significantly with a block and a pair of free throws, maintaining momentum as the Falcons kept a consistent lead. Despite Charleston's push, narrowing the gap to 50–49, Reep's crucial 3-pointer at 0:48 secured a more comfortable lead. The quarter concluded with Reep's layup, closing the quarter 55–49 in favor of the Falcons.

The Falcons solidified their position early in the fourth quarter as Cook connected on a 3-pointer at 9:14, extending their lead to 58-49. Murray made a critical steal shortly after, though a quick turnover followed, showcasing a brief exchange of defensive plays. Reep contributed significantly with a layup at 4:23, maintaining the Falcons' advantage. Despite the Golden Eagles' attempts to close the gap, the Falcons kept control with key free throws from Cook and Jones in the final minute, effectively sealing the game. The quarter concluded with Fairmont State outscoring Charleston 21–15, ending the contest with a 76–64 victory.

Reep scored 27 points, converting 10 of 13 field goals and 3 of 5 from beyond the arc, while also recording six assists and three steals. Jones posted a double-double, finishing with 12 points and 10 rebounds, including a perfect 7 of 7 from the free-throw line. Tate contributed 10 points and blocked two shots, adding defensive depth. Murray tallied three steals during her time on the court.

Fairmont State travels to Institute, West Virginia on Saturday, February 7 to face West Virginia State University. The game is slated to start at 2:00 p.m.