CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The University of Charleston women's basketball team secured a thrilling 62-59 victory over the West Virginia Wesleyan Bobcats on Wednesday night at the H. Bernard Wehrle Arena. The Golden Eagles overcame a slow start with a dominant second quarter and held off a late push by the Bobcats to earn their ninth Mountain East Conference (MEC) win of the season.
The Basics:
Location: Wehrle Innovation Center
Score: 62-59
Records: UC 14-11 (9-8 MEC); WV Wesleyan 17-7 (11-6 MEC)
How it Happened:
Charleston struggled to find their rhythm early, shooting just 25% from the field and managing only seven points. Despite the offensive struggles, their defense held firm, limiting West Virginia Wesleyan to 10 points in a low-scoring opening period.
The Golden Eagles erupted in the second quarter, outscoring the Bobcats 26-13 behind a 78.6% shooting performance from the field. Ksenija Mitric came off the bench to provide a spark, knocking down three triples, while Jamia Nesmith controlled the paint with strong rebounding and efficient scoring. Charleston entered halftime with a 33-23 lead, flipping the momentum entirely.
Both teams traded baskets in the third, with each squad scoring 14 points. Kiley Graham contributed valuable minutes, while Sydney Bolles added key baskets to maintain Charleston's lead. Despite West Virginia Wesleyan's attempts to close the gap, the Golden Eagles remained composed, entering the final period up 47-37.
The Bobcats made their push in the final frame, outscoring Charleston 22-15, but the Golden Eagles held their ground in the closing moments. Emma Witt and Sydney Baird hit clutch shots, while Nesmith continued to dominate the boards. Charleston held off West Virginia Wesleyan's late charge to secure the win, improving to 14-11 (9-8 MEC) on the season.
Team Comparison
Charleston shot 44.4% from the field (24-54) compared to West Virginia Wesleyan's 40.4% (23-57). The Golden Eagles also controlled the boards, grabbing 36 rebounds to the Bobcats' 27. Charleston's depth played a key role, with 19 bench points versus just four for West Virginia Wesleyan.
Up Next:
Charleston will look to carry this momentum into their next game on Saturday, Feb. 22, at 2 PM on the road versus Davis & Elkins College.
