INSTITUTE, W.Va. — West Virginia State University battled back from a significant deficit Wednesday evening but couldn't complete the comeback, falling to Fairmont State, 76-72, in a tightly contested Mountain East Conference matchup at the Walker Convocation Center.
Fairmont State (6-2, 2-1 MEC) came out strong, using efficient shooting and aggressive defense to take control early. The Falcons shot 50% in the first quarter to build a 22-11 lead, with Alyssa DeAngelo leading the charge. The second quarter followed a similar script, as Fairmont outscored WVSU 23-12 to head into halftime with a commanding 45-23 advantage. Turnovers plagued the Yellow Jackets, who gave the ball away 13 times in the half and managed only 29% shooting from the field.
WVSU (5-1, 1-1 MEC) roared back in the third quarter, outscoring Fairmont State 29-19 in a stunning display of offensive efficiency. The Yellow Jackets shot 75% from the field, with Zakorrah Russell and Shanley Woods sparking the comeback. Russell scored nine of her 16 points during the quarter, and Woods was perfect from three-point range, knocking down three of her five triples. The surge cut the deficit to 64-52, giving the Yellow Jackets momentum entering the final frame.
The Yellow Jackets continued their comeback effort in the fourth quarter, fueled by relentless defensive pressure and timely scoring from their reserves. Emily Anthony directed the offense with precision, finishing the game with nine points and six assists. Emyah Fortenberry dominated in the paint with 12 points and 12 rebounds, while Woods capped her night with 15 points. WVSU pulled within four points in the final minute but couldn't overcome Fairmont's clutch free throws and steady composure down the stretch.
WVSU's depth shone as the bench contributed 35 points to the effort. Fortenberry's double-double anchored the team's interior play, while Woods' 5-for-6 shooting from beyond the arc provided a crucial spark. Russell's all-around play added energy and scoring in key moments.
The Yellow Jackets will look to regroup and get back to winning ways when they travel to Frostburg State on Saturday in another pivotal MEC contest. Tip-off is scheduled for 2:00 p.m.
