WEST LIBERTY, WV -- In a thrilling NCAA Atlantic Region Quarterfinal matchup, the Fayetteville State Broncos emerged victorious over the Fairmont State Falcons with a 74-67 overtime win at the West Liberty ASRC on Saturday night. The Broncos (23-8) were led by standout performances from Isaiah Ray and Caleb Simmons, both recording double-doubles to propel their team to victory.
Ray delivered an impressive 23 points and 11 rebounds, while Simmons contributed 14 points and 11 rebounds. Tairell Fletcher also made a significant impact with 18 points. The Broncos dominated the boards, out-rebounding the Falcons 43-27, with Ray leading the charge with 11 rebounds.
"What a game," said CIAA Coach of the Year Luke D'Alessio. "Fairmont [State] is a good team and a great program. They are usually in the NCAA every year and we are trying to get there. It was a tough game because they are so hard to defend. We didn't turn the ball of much. They usually win the battle of points off turnovers. We out rebounded them 43-27. Our team showed a lot of fight in us when they took the lead. We didn't give up and we played to the last second."
Fayetteville State's aggressive play on the offensive glass resulted in 14 offensive rebounds, translating into 10 second-chance points. The Broncos' defense was equally formidable, forcing 14 turnovers and converting them into 19 points. Ray's two steals highlighted the defensive effort.
The game saw Fayetteville State jump to an early lead, going on an 11-0 run in the first half to establish a 29-14 advantage. Despite a strong push from Fairmont State, the Broncos maintained a 33-20 lead at halftime, with 18 of their points coming from the paint.
Fairmont State rallied in the second half, tying the game at 56-56 to force overtime. The Falcons briefly took a 65-63 lead in the extra period, but Fayetteville State responded with a decisive 7-0 run, securing a 70-65 lead with just 26 seconds remaining. The Broncos held on to expand their lead and clinch the 74-67 win.
The victory marks the first time in program history that the Broncos advance past the quarterfinal game in NCAA postseason play.
The Broncos' next challenge will be the No. 1 seeded and host West Liberty University in the NCAA Atlantic Region Semifinals.
