ATHENS, W.Va. (AP) — West Virginia State (5-0, 2-0 MEC) stayed unbeaten with a 70-63 win over Concord (3-3, 1-1 MEC) on Tuesday night in Mountain East Conference action at the Carter Center. After a close first half, the Yellow Jackets surged ahead with a dominant third quarter and held on late to secure the victory.

West Virginia State's defensive intensity defined the game, as the Yellow Jackets forced 35 turnovers and tallied 23 steals. Latifat Olatunji led WVSU with 16 points, nine rebounds, and five steals, while Hallie Bailey and Baylee Goins added seven points apiece.

The Yellow Jackets trailed 32-25 at halftime as Concord capitalized on WVSU's miscues, turning seven turnovers into 10 points during the second quarter. Concord's Imani Hickman hit a key three-pointer, and Kalyn Williams added a fast-break layup to help the Mountain Lions build their lead. Despite strong efforts from Olatunji and Emily Anthony, WVSU couldn't close the gap before the break.

WVSU turned the game around in the third quarter, outscoring Concord 27-11. Olatunji sparked the rally with her scoring and rebounding, while Ashley Kerekes nailed a critical three-pointer. ZZ Russell added second-chance baskets as the Yellow Jackets dominated the paint with 20 points in the quarter. Concord's offense faltered, committing 15 turnovers, and WVSU entered the final period with a 52-43 advantage.

In the fourth quarter, the Yellow Jackets maintained their lead behind timely scoring and steady defense. Olatunji's fast-break layups and Bailey's free throws helped seal the win. Trina Lewis hit a late three-pointer for Concord, but turnovers and missed opportunities kept the Mountain Lions from mounting a full comeback. WVSU outscored Concord 8-0 in fast-break points in the final frame to secure the victory.

West Virginia State will return to action on Wednesday, Dec. 4, hosting Fairmont State at the Walker Convocation Center. Tipoff is set for 5:30 p.m.