SPRINGFIELD — Fayetteville used its size advantage and a strong first half from Aubrey Baker to end West Liberty-Salem’s tournament run Wednesday night, defeating the Lady Tigers 45–33 in a Division regional semifinal at Springfield High School.
West Liberty-Salem came out aggressive early and briefly held a 3–2 lead before settling into a tight opening quarter. The Lady Tigers stayed within reach throughout the period and trailed 12–9 after one.
Fayetteville began to create separation in the second quarter. The Rockets’ length and defensive pressure disrupted West Liberty-Salem offensively, limiting the Tigers to six points in the period while also containing OHC Player of the Year Ava Astorino.
Meanwhile, Baker fueled the Fayetteville offense. The senior guard knocked down three first-half three-pointers and scored 15 points before halftime, helping the Rockets build a 26–15 lead at the break.
West Liberty-Salem showed determination coming out of halftime, battling back in the third quarter. The Lady Tigers chipped away at the deficit and trimmed the lead to nine heading into the fourth quarter at 34–25.
A three-pointer to open the final period cut Fayetteville’s lead to six and briefly put the Tigers within striking distance.
However, the Rockets responded by attacking inside and capitalizing at the free-throw line. Fayetteville converted 14 of 23 attempts (61 percent) from the stripe and controlled the closing minutes to secure the 45–33 victory.
Baker finished with a game-high 22 points to lead Fayetteville.
West Liberty-Salem was led by Ellery Wygal with nine points. Astorino added seven points, while Emily King and Arianna Weaver each scored six. Addi Wallen contributed three points and Ava Poppe added two. The Lady Tigers struggled at the free-throw line, finishing 2-of-9 (22 percent).
The loss ends West Liberty-Salem’s season one game short of the regional final. The Lady Tigers finish the year with a 22–4 record and made just the third regional semifinal appearance in program history.
