INSTITUTE, W.Va. – Fayetteville State placed five players in double figures and forced 26 turnovers en route to a 104-95 victory over West Virginia State Friday night in the opening game of the Earl Lloyd Classic at Walker Convocation Center.
The Broncos improved to 1-1 on the season behind a balanced offensive attack and relentless defensive pressure that generated 20 steals and 24 points off turnovers.
Kenneth Brayboy led Fayetteville State with 26 points, six rebounds, three assists, and three steals, while Joseph Allen added 20 points on 7-of-16 shooting. Dane Stewart matched Allen with 20 points, connecting on four three-pointers and collecting three steals. Tyler Gill posted 14 points, 10 rebounds, six steals, and three assists, and Chandler Kennedy contributed eight points off the bench.
After a competitive opening half, Fayetteville State carried a 49-44 advantage into the break. The Broncos built the lead behind efficient scoring from Brayboy and Allen while capitalizing on West Virginia State miscues to create transition opportunities.
The game shifted decisively early in the second half when the Broncos turned a five-point halftime lead into a 15-point cushion. Back-to-back steals and fast-break baskets sparked a surge that pushed the advantage to 67-53 with just under 16 minutes remaining. Fayetteville State's pressure defense continued to disrupt the Yellow Jackets, who struggled to protect the ball against the Broncos' aggressive approach.
West Virginia State cut into the deficit several times, but Fayetteville State consistently answered. Three-pointers from Stewart and Kennedy, combined with steady production at the free-throw line, helped the Broncos maintain control down the stretch and eclipse the 100-point mark in the final two minutes.
The Broncos shot 42.5 percent from the field and knocked down 10 three-pointers while converting 32-of-41 free throws. Fayetteville State also received key contributions from Tyrone Iroghama, who scored eight points with five rebounds and two assists, and Miles Whye, who grabbed four rebounds.
For West Virginia State (0-2), Zahki Fallen finished with 23 points and five assists, while Quez Shuler recorded 22 points and 15 rebounds.
Up Next: Glenville State Preview
Fayetteville State will conclude play at the Earl Lloyd Classic on Saturday when it faces Glenville State at 2 p.m. in Institute, West Virginia.
The Pioneers enter the matchup with momentum after an 83-63 victory over Virginia Union in their season opener. Don Colon-Lewis paced Glenville State with 19 points, while Prince Mosengo added 14 points and Callum Crossman contributed 13 points off the bench. Glenville State shot 51.7 percent from the field and forced 15 turnovers while scoring 20 points off those miscues.
Saturday's contest features two teams coming off strong offensive performances. Fayetteville State scored 104 points and forced 26 turnovers against West Virginia State, while Glenville State showcased a balanced attack with five players scoring at least nine points in its win over Virginia Union. The matchup could be decided by which team better controls the turnover battle and dictates the tempo in transition.
Keys to the Game
-
Force Turnovers and Create Transition Opportunities - Fayetteville State's pressure defense was the difference against West Virginia State, forcing 26 turnovers and recording 20 steals. If the Broncos can generate similar chaos, they can fuel their up-tempo offense and create easy scoring chances.
-
Win the Rebounding Battle - The Broncos were outrebounded 48-39 by West Virginia State despite the win. Glenville State was active on the glass against Virginia Union and will look to generate second-chance opportunities. Fayetteville State needs strong efforts from Kenneth Brayboy, Tyler Gill, and the frontcourt to control the boards.
For more information on Fayetteville State Athletics, visit fsubroncos.com and follow the Broncos on social media.
