In dramatic fashion the Liberty Flames ended a 13 game losing streak to UNC Asheville, knocking off the Bulldogs, 82-69 in overtime Thursday night. It was the program’s first win over UNCA since 2011 and first ever win in Kimmel Arena.
After jumping out to an early lead, by as many as 15 points, in the first half, Asheville responded in the 2nd stanza. The Bulldogs took their first lead of the game in the 2nd half and the team traded blows the final several minutes of regulation.
With the game tied at 67, Ahmad Thomas hit a 15 foot baseline jumper with Isaiah Williams all over him, to give UNCA the two point lead, and what looked like the win, with just 1.4 seconds left.
After a timeout, Keegan McDowell made a perfect pass which Scottie James was able to catch cleanly in the paint. The redshirt-sophomore immediately turned and laid the ball off the backboard to send the game into overtime.
In the extra period, it was all Liberty as the Flames outscored the Bulldogs 13-0, sending Asheville to its first home loss this season.
Scottie James continued his stellar play, finishing with 23 points and 15 rebounds. Lovell Cabbil added 16 points, 6 assists and 3 rebounds. Ryan Kemrite connected on 5 of his 9 three point attempts for 15 points. Elijah Cuffee had 9 points and 6 assists.
As mentioned, Isaiah Williams made his return for the Flames after missing 7 games due to a suspension.
With the win, Liberty moves to 8-7 in Big South play with just 3 regular season games remaining. The Flames will be tied for 4th place with the loser of the Radford/Campbell game and just 1 game behind the winner for 3rd place.
