Even though fans are not permitted in the ASRC during sporting events, the rivalry between West Liberty University and Wheeling University is still as present as ever. Being perhaps one of the most prominent Mountain East Conference rivalries over the past decade, the Hilltoppers and Cardinals are ready for their twenty fourth matchup on Wednesday night.
The Hilltoppers have flashed signs of greatness during their first nine games, but are still trying to find themselves during the process. After getting off to an electric start, including a 134-72 win over Frostburg State University, the Toppers went on an ugly three game skid, including losses to Concord University, West Virginia State University, and the University of Charleston. Since then they have bounced back winning two in a row, and enter as the heavy favorites against West Virginia Wesleyan (0-9) for their Sunday afternoon tip-off. The performance of the Hilltoppers “Big 3” consisting of Dalton Bolon, Pat Robinson III, and Will Yoakum, will ultimately decide on how far WLU will go, as this incredibly talented team has the potential to make a deep tournament run.
As for the Cardinals, their beginnings to the 2020-21 campaign have been difficult. It appears as though Wheeling University is mostly battling factors that they cannot control due to the Coronavirus pandemic, including seven postponed games. Even then with the six games they have played, they are 2-4, including a four game skid to open the season. With the Cardinals sitting last in the MEC North Divisional Standings, WU is looking for an enormous upset win.
The Hilltoppers have dominated the Cardinals throughout the last ten matchups (7-3). On their home court, the Hilltoppers have seen a 8-2 record, including the biggest margin of victory between the two at 118-74 on Jan. 26, 2019. Averaging 92.5 points per matchup, it appears as though the Hilltoppers are positioned to have yet another high scoring game.