INSTITUTE, W.Va. — West Virginia State men's basketball delivered a valiant effort against the No. 4 West Liberty Hilltoppers but fell just short in a 92-89 loss on Saturday at the Walker Convocation Center. The Yellow Jackets (5-4, 3-3 MEC) pushed the nationally ranked Hilltoppers (10-0, 5-0 MEC) to the brink, overcoming a significant deficit before narrowly missing the upset in a thrilling Mountain East Conference contest.

West Liberty built a 50-39 lead at halftime. The Hilltoppers converted 11-of-15 free throws and five three-pointers in the first half, while WVSU countered with 22 points in the paint and a strong rebounding presence to stay within striking distance.

The Yellow Jackets faced an 18-point deficit with 12 minutes to play but staged a furious rally behind Jae Slack and Miguel Martinez. Slack finished with 26 points on 10-of-15 shooting, including two three-pointers, while Martinez recorded a stellar double-double with 22 points and 12 rebounds. Nate Mims added 16 points and four assists to bolster WVSU's comeback. The Yellow Jackets got as close as one point with three seconds to play, but West Liberty's clutch free throws and late defensive stand sealed the victory.

The Yellow Jackets dominated the rebounding battle, out-rebounding the Hilltoppers 51-34, including an 18-8 edge on the offensive glass. WVSU outscored West Liberty 46-34 in the paint, but 19 turnovers proved costly, with the Hilltoppers converting them into 22 points. West Liberty's depth shone through, as their bench contributed 45 points, including a game-high 21 from John Dragas.

WVSU will look to regroup on Tuesday, Dec. 17, when they travel to face Bluefield State at 7:00 PM.