The West Liberty University (WLU) Women’s Basketball team bounced back in a magnificent way against Frostburg State on Wednesday, Feb. 16, winning by the final of 86-62. Now positioned at 17-8 overall on the season, including a 12-7 record in conference play, the Lady Hilltoppers look to close out the remainder of the season on a high note.

The biggest highlight of the game, besides the familiar team chemistry shining yet again, was Karly McCutcheon’s career game. The second-year three-point sharpshooter unleashed a blistering 23 point game, all while shooting 8-15 from the floor, and a whopping 50% (6-12) from beyond the arc. She was aided by freshmen stud Bailee Smith, who brought a supporting 15 points and continued on in her fantastic campaign. Audrey Tingle continued to show why she is a true floor general by almost dropping yet another triple double, posting 8 points, 12 rebounds and 7 assists. To conclude the team efforts, WLU got major contributions off the bench, including 12 points from Molly Bauer off the bench and 21 minutes from Anna Lucarelli.

Fast forward to Saturday, Feb. 19, when the Lady Hilltoppers traveled down to Fairmont State University to conclude their season series against the Fighting Falcons. In their previous matchup on Jan. 15, West Liberty pulled through at home in a massive blowout victory, winning by the final score of 92-76. During that game, Tingle shined, dropping 22 points, snagging 14 rebounds and six assists. In that same game, Arriana Manzay and Bailee Smith showed up in a massive way, both dropping 18 and 16 points respectively.

This time around, the Hilltoppers once again proved victorious by sweeping the series against Fairmont State with a final score of 93-80. During this game, the black and gold saw an absolute offensive explosion to say the least. Not only did the game feature an all around team effort but also incredible individual accolades. Highlighting the contributions is none other than Smith, who had herself a career night, likewise of McCutcheon during the Hilltoppers last game. Smith, who has been an amazing contributor all season, dropped a staggering 34 points and showed flashes of greatness despite being a true freshman. Alongside her was Corinne Thomas, who continued on her very strong season, dropping 23 points. From there, Manzay showed up by posting a 15 point and 14 rebound double-double.

From here, the WLU Women’s Basketball team enters their final week of regular season play, with contests against Notre Dame College (Ohio) and arch-rival Wheeling University. With only a couple more chances at preparation for the MEC Tournament, the Hilltoppers appear to be gearing up once again for the most important play of the year.