LYNCHBURG, Va. — In a close contest on Thursday night, the Liberty Flames emerged victorious over Jacksonville State with a score of 59-55, gaining a half-game lead over their opponents in the Conference USA standings.
The Flames (23-5, 11-4) were led by Kaden Metheny, who contributed 13 points. Metheny made 4 out of 13 shots, including 3 of 11 from three-point range, and hit 2 out of 3 free throws. Jay Maughmer added another 12 points, shooting 5 for 8, and nailing 1 of 3 three-pointers. Zach Cleveland added 10 points alongside nine rebounds, shooting 3 of 7 from the field and 4 for 8 from the charity stripe. This victory marked the team’s sixth consecutive win.
For the Gamecocks (19-10, 11-5), Jao Ituka led with 14 points. Teammate Jaron Pierre Jr. contributed 13 points and secured seven rebounds. Mason Nicholson chipped in with eight points and grabbed ten rebounds for Jacksonville State.
Notably, Jacksonville State had previously bested the Flames with a 72-61 win during a home game on February 1st. However, in this rematch, Cleveland paced the Flames with six points in the first half, steering the team to a 31-16 lead by halftime. Although a tight finish, Ituka’s effort in scoring Liberty’s last seven points ensured they clinched the four-point victory.
This win positions Liberty strategically in the conference, allowing them to assert a dominating presence as they continue their impressive campaign.
