In a thrilling matchup during the Paradise Jam semifinals, Liberty narrowly defeated Kansas State by a score of 69-67 on Sunday night. Colin Porter led the Flames with 17 points, while Isaiah Ihnen contributed 16 points and showcased an impressive 7-of-12 shooting performance.

Kaden Metheny added to the Flames’ effort with 13 points, while Zach Cleveland, though he struggled on offense with a 0-of-8 shooting performance, made a significant impact in other areas, finishing the game with nine rebounds and eight assists.

The game saw its momentum shift in the final minutes when Kansas State took a slight lead at 63-62, thanks to a jumper from Brendan Hausen and a basket in the paint by Achor Achor with just 2:31 remaining. However, Liberty quickly regained the lead when Porter landed a crucial 3-pointer just 16 seconds later, allowing the Flames to stay ahead for the remainder of the game.

In the closing moments, Owen Aquino sank two free throws to extend Liberty’s lead to four points with only 50 seconds left. Kansas State’s Coleman Hawkins then scored in the lane to pull within 67-65 shortly afterward. Liberty’s Metheny missed a layup, giving Kansas State a chance to tie or take the lead, but Dug McDaniel’s 3-point attempt from the left wing fell short, and David N’Guessan missed a chance for a putback. McDaniel’s desperate 3-point shot at the buzzer also failed to find the mark, sealing the victory for Liberty.

Hausen led Kansas State with 14 points, while Hawkins contributed 11. Both N’Guessan and Achor chipped in with 10 points apiece, contributing to a competitive effort from the Wildcats. Liberty, now with a record of 6-1, is set to face McNeese in the championship game, while Kansas State will battle Longwood in the third-place matchup on Monday.