WHEELING, WV – The Salem (WV) Tigers (1-14) faced a tough challenge on Wednesday evening, falling 60-46 to the Wheeling Cardinals at the Alma McDonough Center. Despite a spirited effort and a strong bench performance, a slow second quarter ultimately proved to be the difference for the Tigers.
Game Summary
Salem opened the contest with intensity, keeping pace with the Cardinals throughout a tight first quarter. Meilin Guo set the tone early with a layup at the 8:39 mark to give Salem an initial 2-0 lead. The teams traded buckets for much of the period, and a late layup by Nakayla Green brought the Tigers within one point, trailing 14-13 at the end of the first.
The momentum shifted in the second quarter as Wheeling's defense tightened, holding Salem to just 8 points while extending their own lead. The Tigers struggled from the field, shooting only 25% during this stretch. By halftime, Salem found themselves in a 31-21 hole.
The Tigers showed resilience in the second half, outscoring Wheeling 15-10 in the third quarter to narrow the gap. However, the Cardinals maintained control in the final period, sealing the 60-46 victory.
Key Tiger Performances
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Selena Frost: Led the Tigers with 10 points and 4 rebounds. She also contributed defensively with a block and a steal.
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Akhia Miller: Was a force on the glass, leading the team with 9 rebounds while adding 7 points and 2 blocks.
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Nakayla Green: Played a team-high 37 minutes, finishing with 10 points and 4 rebounds.
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Bench Contribution: Salem's bench was a bright spot, outscoring Wheeling's reserves 10-4. Kori Pillette (5 rebounds) and Taja Brown (4 rebounds) provided valuable energy off the pine.
By the Numbers
Salem dominated the offensive glass, hauling in 18 offensive rebounds compared to Wheeling's 12. This hustle led to 11 second-chance points. However, turnovers were a critical factor, as the Tigers committed 25 giveaways which Wheeling converted into 24 points.
The Tigers will look to bounce back and find more offensive consistency as they continue their DII Independent campaign.