GLENVILLE, W.Va. -- In what was decidedly a chippy game with 10 technical fouls called on the two teams, West Virginia State men's basketball ended up taking the season series over Glenville State, 92-82. WVSU finished the game going 28-of-54 from the field while holding the Pioneers to 40 percent.
The Yellow Jackets improve to 8-8 on the season, 5-5 in Mountain East Conference play. The Pioneers slip to 9-8, 4-6 in the MEC.
Jaedaun Slack led all scorers with 20 points, five rebounds and a steal.
Arthur Cox picked up a double-double with 10 points and 11 boards, while
Jaden Byers and
Nate Mims contributed 18 points and 13 points respectively.
Ammar Maxwell led Glenville State with 19.
West Virginia State opened strong with balanced scoring and dominant rebounding, spearheaded by Byers and Cox. Glenville State's Maxwell kept the game competitive, using his interior presence to counter State's early lead. Slack showcased his shooting touch, draining two key jumpers to push the lead to double digits midway through the half. Despite several turnovers, WVSU's defensive intensity, led by Fortenberry, limited Glenville State's second-chance points. Russell added a critical three-pointer to extend the lead late in the half. Glenville State's Colon-Lewis responded with back-to-back baskets, narrowing the gap, but WVSU maintained composure. Mims controlled the pace, adding key assists and clutch free throws to close the half. By the break, State led 41-32, outpacing Glenville State in points off turnovers and paint production.
The second half was a showcase of offensive efficiency for WVSU, with Martinez catching fire early from beyond the arc, sinking consecutive three-pointers. Glenville State's Redfern answered with aggressive drives, converting key free throws. Slack continued his stellar performance, finishing strong in the paint while also drawing fouls to maintain the scoring margin. Cox provided stability on the boards, securing defensive rebounds during Glenville's late-game push. Colon-Lewis kept Glenville within striking distance with his consistent shooting, including a pivotal fast-break layup. However, Toussaint's energy and Mims' leadership in distributing the ball ensured State stayed ahead. Fortenberry sealed the victory with crucial defensive stops and timely assists in the final minutes. WVSU outscored Glenville 51-50 in the second half to claim a 92-82 road victory.
WVSU will host their cross-county rivals, the University of Charleston Golden Eagles for the first leg of the Kanawha River Classic on Saturday, Jan. 25 at 4:00 p.m.
