West Liberty, WV – The West Liberty Hilltoppers flexed offensive firepower in a resounding 113-61 win of West Virginia Wesleyan on Saturday at the ASRC. The win moves West Liberty to 19-3 overall and 13-2 in the MEC, keeping the Hilltoppers firmly in the hunt for the top seed in the conference tournament.
 
West Liberty jumped out to an 11-0 lead just minutes into the contest. The Bobcats (5-17, 2-12 MEC) struggled against relentless pressure, committing multiple early turnovers that led to fast-break opportunities for the home team.
 
The Hilltoppers' John Dragas hit four three-pointers in the first half en route to a 20-point night. The Hilltoppers shot a blistering 69.2% from the field (27-39) in the opening frame, including 10-of-16 (62.5%) from beyond the arc. West Liberty piled up 18 first-half assists, repeatedly finding open shooters and cutters.
 
Despite the lopsided score, the West Liberty defense continued to smother the Bobcats in the second half, forcing 19 turnovers that led to 28 points off turnovers. Wesleyan found some offensive rhythm after halftime, but it was far from enough to overcome the deficit.
 
Balanced scoring was a key factor in West Liberty's offensive explosion, as five players reached double figures. In addition to Dragas' 20 points, JJ Harper (15 points, 3 rebounds, 2 steals) and Daniel Autrey (14 points, 4 three-pointers, 3 steals) provided key contributions off the bench. Garrison Kisner was a perfect 6-for-6 from the field, finishing with 13 points, while Kameron Tinsley added 13 points and 6-for-6 free throws.
 
Wesleyan was led by Michael Batchelor, who scored 15 points on 5-of-14 shooting, including five three-pointers. However, the Bobcats struggled as a team, shooting just 38.7% from the field and managing only two fast-break points the entire game.
 
Team Stats Breakdown

• West Liberty: 66.2% FG (45-68), 46.7% 3PT (14-30), 90.0% FT (9-10)
• West Virginia Wesleyan: 38.7% FG (24-62), 44.4% 3PT (8-18), 83.3% FT (5-6)
• Points in the Paint: West Liberty 60, WV Wesleyan 28
• Bench Points: West Liberty 60, WV Wesleyan 16
• Fast Break Points: West Liberty 23, WV Wesleyan 0
• Largest Lead: 52 points (final score)

 
Wesleyan will attempt to regroup and snap its losing skid as the 'Cats return home to host Concord College Wednesday, Feb. 12 at 7:30 p.m.