Solid performance in Q2 propels Morgantown to 18th win, 79-63 over Martinsburg
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Facing the physical toll of their third back-to-back schedule in three weeks, the Morgantown Mohigans (18-1) relied on a tactical shift and a potent offense to defeat the Martinsburg Bulldogs, 79-63. Coming off a narrow victory the previous night, head coach Dave Tallman pivoted from his signature "havoc" pressure defense to an uncharacteristic zone to preserve his fatigued players. The strategy proved effective in the second quarter, where Morgantown broke open a close game with a 25-14 run, fueled by Marcus Goins hitting three of his four first-half three-pointers. Goins finished with 13 points, providing a vital perimeter threat as he continues his comeback from a knee injury.
The offensive charge was led by Waylon Colistra, who dominated the post with a game-high 29 points. Coach Tallman praised Colistra’s competitiveness and his evolving playmaking ability, noting that the standout is increasingly effective at finding open shooters when faced with double teams. Max Frey also contributed 16 points to the winning effort, helping the Mohigans maintain their double-digit lead throughout the second half. Despite the defensive adjustments made in the absence of steals leader Sam Frey, the victory solidified Morgantown’s position as the winningest team in Class AAAA as they look toward the postseason.
Martinsburg (8-12) displayed a balanced scoring effort in the loss, led by Mikey Green’s 16 points. Nykeem Thompson, Cody Shallis, and Boston Todd also reached double digits for the Bulldogs, but they were unable to overcome Morgantown’s second-quarter surge. With the No. 1 seed in the North Regional already secured, the Mohigans will look to heal and refine their defense in final regular-season matchups against Brooke and George Washington before attempting a run at the state championship.