Institute, W.Va. -- West Virginia State defeated Point Park 82-58 in the opening round of the MEC Tournament at WesBanco Arena. The Yellow Jackets pulled away after a tied first quarter and advanced to the quarterfinals.

The first quarter remained close as both teams exchanged early baskets. Point Park's Camille Fultz scored a layup to tie the game at 2-2 before Zakorrah Russell knocked down a three-pointer to give WVSU the lead. Point Park answered with inside scoring from Ari Bleda and Alexis Giles. West Virginia State's Baylee Goins hit a three-pointer late in the quarter, but the Pioneers responded with free throws from Fultz to tie the game at 15-15.

West Virginia State created separation in the second quarter behind scoring from Latifat Olatunji and Goins. A 10-0 run midway through the period gave the Yellow Jackets a 33-25 advantage. Point Park's Giles hit a three-pointer to cut into the deficit, but WVSU continued to push in transition. A putback layup from Olatunji and free throws extended the lead to 37-30 at halftime.

The Yellow Jackets controlled the third quarter, outscoring Point Park 22-13. Emyah Fortenberry and Hallie Bailey added inside baskets for WVSU as the lead grew to double digits. Point Park struggled from the field, missing multiple layups. West Virginia State's defense forced turnovers, leading to fast-break points. A late three-pointer from Goins extended WVSU's lead to 59-43 entering the fourth.

WVSU maintained its momentum in the final quarter, outscoring the Pioneers 23-15. Fortenberry and Goins continued to attack the paint, and Olatunji added another strong finish at the rim. Point Park's offense remained inconsistent, while the Yellow Jackets capitalized on second-chance opportunities. Free throws down the stretch secured the 24-point victory as WVSU moved on to the quarterfinals.

Goins led West Virginia State with 15 points, while Fortenberry added a double-double with 11 points and 11 rebounds. Olatunji contributed 13 points, and Hallie Bailey chipped in with 11. Giles paced Point Park with 16 points. The Yellow Jackets will face West Virgina Wesleyan in the quarterfinals of the MEC Tournament tomrrow at 12:00pm.