Ohio High School Basketball Recap: Fairbanks Stays Unbeaten With 53–45 Win Over West Liberty-Salem

Wolfe Sports Recruiting
Dec 5
2 min read

Updated: 2 hours ago

December 5, 2025 — West Liberty, OH

Basketball Game Recap

Red scoreboard image with "Final Score 53-45" and Fairbanks Panthers logos. Season record: 2-0. OHC record: 1-0. Checkered border pattern.

The Fairbanks Panthers continued their strong start to the 2025–26 High School Basketball season, going on the road and earning a 53–45 league victory over the West Liberty-Salem Tigers on Friday night. With the win, Fairbanks improves to 2–0, showcasing early-season confidence and balance on both ends of the floor.

West Liberty-Salem battled throughout the night and kept the game within reach, but Fairbanks’ composure and timely scoring runs proved to be the deciding factors.

Game Summary

Fairbanks opened the game with energy, pushing the pace offensively and applying consistent defensive pressure. The Panthers built a steady lead through efficient shot selection and strong guard play, while their defensive rotations limited West Liberty-Salem’s rhythm for much of the night.

The Tigers responded with a late surge, cutting into the margin behind physical interior play and improved execution in the second half. However, Fairbanks made key stops and knocked down important free throws in the closing minutes to secure the victory.

The result reflects a Panthers team that continues to build momentum and confidence heading into a busy December slate.

What’s Next for Fairbanks

The Panthers (2–0) return home on Tuesday, December 9, for an Ohio Heritage Conference matchup against Southeastern Local. The Trojans enter the game 1–1, coming off a 60–43 loss to Greenon. Fairbanks will look to extend its unbeaten start and maintain control early in conference play.

What’s Next for West Liberty-Salem

The Tigers (0–1) now turn their attention to Greenon, who enters Tuesday’s contest with a 1–0 record after a strong win over Southeastern Local. West Liberty-Salem will aim to bounce back, build on Friday’s competitive effort, and secure its first win of the season.