HADLEY, Ky. (Interstat) — In a game defined by contrasting offensive philosophies, the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers used a dominant interior attack to overpower the Tennessee State Tigers 95-82 in a non-conference men’s basketball game Sunday at E.A. Diddle Arena.

The Hilltoppers improved to 3-0 on the young season, while the Tigers evened their record at 2-2 before an announced crowd of 2,845.

Western Kentucky’s victory was built on overwhelming efficiency inside the arc. The Hilltoppers shot 55 percent from the field, a stark contrast to Tennessee State’s 41 percent. The most telling statistic was the points in the paint, where Western Kentucky held a commanding 62-24 advantage. Despite attempting only 15 three-pointers and making just two, the Hilltoppers’ relentless drive-and-dish game and finishing ability at the rim proved unstoppable.

The game’s offensive disparity was further highlighted by advanced metrics. Western Kentucky scored 95 points on 78 possessions, an elite offensive rating of 121.5. Tennessee State, meanwhile, managed 82 points on 80 possessions, an offensive rating of 102.3, underscoring the Hilltoppers’ superior shot-making and ball security. Western Kentucky committed only nine turnovers, converting Tennessee State’s 14 miscues into 19 points. The Hilltoppers also outran the Tigers in transition, posting a 26-14 edge in fastbreak points.

Teagan Moore led the Western Kentucky charge, scoring 20 points on efficient 8-of-12 shooting from the field, while adding five rebounds and a block. His ability to score in the lane was a constant problem for the Tennessee State defense. He was complemented by a balanced supporting cast, with Grant Newell contributing 12 points and seven rebounds, and Armelo Boone adding 11 points and four rebounds. Terrion Murdix orchestrated the offense effectively, dishing out seven assists to go with his eight points.

For Tennessee State, Aaron Nkrumah delivered a standout individual performance, pouring in a game-high 22 points and grabbing nine rebounds. Travis Harper provided a significant scoring punch with 18 points, and Dante Harris facilitated the offense with 15 points and seven assists. However, the Tigers’ reliance on perimeter shooting and free throws—they attempted 34 from the foul line, making 25—was not enough to counter Western Kentucky’s systematic dismantling of their defense from close range.

The Hilltoppers seized control of the contest in the first half, racing out to a 51-43 lead at the break. They maintained their offensive pressure in the second period, outscoring the Tigers 44-39 to secure the double-digit victory.

Western Kentucky will look to continue its undefeated start when it hosts Vanderbilt on Wednesday, Nov. 26, in a game played in Nassau, The Bahamas. Tennessee State faces a quick turnaround and a tough test, traveling to face Tennessee on Thursday, Nov. 20.