West Virginia Goes Ahead Early, Holds Off Toledo

West Virginia vs Toledo | December 23, 2023

West Virginia triumphed 91-81 against Toledo, halting a two-game losing streak on Saturday in Morgantown, W.Va.

The Mountaineers were ahead by 12 at halftime, but Toledo’s 6-2 surge early in the second half brought them within single digits for the first time since the five-and-a-half-minute mark of the game.

The Rockets were behind by two, 66-64, with eight minutes remaining in regulation. Nevertheless, West Virginia succeeded in pulling away to win for the first time in two weeks.

The Mountaineers (5-7) were led by fifth-year guard RaeQuan Battle, a transfer from Montana State, who followed up his 29-point performance in his season debut on Wednesday with 29 points against Toledo.

Quinn Zalinski contributed 14 points, while Kerr Kriisa achieved a double-double with 12 points and 10 assists. Noah Farrakhan also scored 12 points.

West Virginia demonstrated significant improvement on the boards compared to recent weeks, with Akok Akok securing a game-high 12 rebounds as they outrebounded the Rockets 35-34.

Toledo (6-6) has experienced consecutive losses for the first time since a four-game losing streak in November. Their bench players fuelled the offense, contributing 41 points.

Ra’Heim Moss, despite fouling out, led the Rockets with 21 points. Javan Simmons and Dante Maddox Jr. led all starters with 14 points, while Tyler Cochran finished with 12 before fouling out.

West Virginia began the game with zeal, seizing a substantial lead early in the first half after scoring 13 consecutive points.

The Mountaineers held an 18-point lead just seven minutes into the game, making 10 of their first 11 shots. The Rockets attempted to stage a comeback as Maddox spearheaded a 12-5 run, reducing the deficit to 10.

The teams exchanged baskets in the closing minutes of the half, with West Virginia holding a 45-33 lead heading into the break.

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