WEST LIBERTY, West Virginia - After their big win over Frostburg State, the Salem Men's Basketball team took the trip up to the Northern Panhandle of the state on Wednesday evening to face off with the West Liberty Hilltoppers for the 2nd time this season. Salem fell in that first contest at home, and this contest did not go much better. Salem was unable to keep pace with a frenzied Hilltopper offense this go around, and fell 112-76. The game played out as follows: 

In the first half, Salem had the tough task of trying to keep pace with the frantic attack of the Hilltoppers. Salem fell behind initially, but kept the pressure on with some strong interior scoring from Kapone Barley. Jack Garrison IV and Ian Hardy added some additional scoring punch from the outside, and Salem tried to stay in step with the nationally ranked Hilltoppers. However, West Liberty maintained their control of the contest with a 67-41 lead at the half. 

In the second half, the Tigers knew they needed to find a new offensive gear in order to find their way back into the game. They made a valiant effort towards that goal with Ashraf Tchadouwa controlling the paint for Salem, and Khemanni Davis adding some strong play down the stretch. However, Salem simply could not keep pace with the Hilltoppers, and the Tigers fell to West Liberty 112-76. 

On the stats sheet, Kapone Barley led Salem with 19 points. Just behind him, Ian Hardy contributed 17 points. Khemanni Davis and Jack Garrison IV each dropped in 13 points as well to round out the Salem scorer's in double figures. 

Salem will be returning to the comfort of T. Edward Davis Gymnasium for their next contest. The Falcons of Notre Dame College come down to Salem on Saturday, January 27th at 4 PM, immediately following the women's contest with the Falcons at 2 PM.