Mountaineers Dominate Lafayette in 97-28 Victory
MORGANTOWN, WV – The 13th-ranked West Virginia Mountaineers showcased their defensive prowess with a commanding 97-28 victory over Lafayette inside the Coliseum on Friday night. Led by J.J. Quinerly’s 19 points, the Mountaineers overwhelmed the Leopards, who struggled to find their rhythm throughout the game.
WVU’s defense was extraordinary, outclassing Lafayette with more than double the assists—25, compared to Lafayette’s 12 baskets. The Leopards (1-4) were unable to capitalize, committing 30 turnovers and managing only 28 points, which ties for the seventh-fewest allowed in the program’s storied history.
"Those types of games are always fun, especially when you can get everyone involved," said WVU forward Kylee Blacksten, who contributed 13 points and six rebounds. Despite the absence of starting guard Sydney Shaw, who was serving a one-game suspension, the Mountaineers maintained their momentum by shooting a season-high 56.9% from the field.
Head coach Mark Kellogg noted the overwhelming impact of their defensive strategy, stating, “I don’t know if our defense is an extra player, but it can get a little overwhelming for opponents.”
Freshman Jordan Thomas stepped up in Shaw’s absence with 11 points and five assists, while transfer Sydney Woodley delivered her best performance of the season, adding 15 points and five steals off the bench.
With this win, the Mountaineers improve to 6-0 and look ahead to their next challenge in the Gulf Coast Showcase in Estero, Florida. Coach Kellogg expressed anticipation for the upcoming road trip and the competitive tests it may bring. "Now we’ll take our show on the road and see what we’re made of," he stated.
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