Liberty jumped out to an early lead and never trailed, defeating Howard, 75-55. The Flames move to 5-2 on the season and have won 3 straight games.
On what is becoming a common occurrence, five Flames reached double figures, including a pair that did so for the first time this season. On his 21st birthday, Caleb Homesley reached double figures in scoring for the first time since he injured his knee last year. Homesley finished the game with 15 points and 4 rebounds in just 16 minutes. Elijah Cuffee had the best game of his young career, finishing with 10 points, 4 assists, and 3 rebounds.
Scottie James continues to wreak havoc on the glass, finishing his 6th straight game with at least 6 rebounds and 2nd consecutive double-double. The redshirt-sophomore finished the game with 14 points and 10 rebounds. He also had a couple of highlight worthy dunks.
Georgie Pacheco-Ortiz had his best offensive performance of the year, leading the team with 17 points. Liberty’s sophomore point guard was 6/7 shooting from the field and also finished with 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Ryan Kemrite rounded out the double figure scorers with 11 points on 3/6 shooting from 3.
Coach McKay’s roster offers so much flexibility with guys that can play and guard multiple positions. It was apparent against the Bison, as McKay opted to go with more 4 guard lineup combinations than we have seen most of this season.
Liberty’s defense, highlighted by Lovell Cabbil’s play on Howard’s leading scorer RJ Cole, was very effective. The Bison were held to 39% shooting on the night. Cole, who was averaging 20 points and 6 assists entering the game, finished with 12 points on 4/13 shooting. He was 0/4 from 3.
The Flames return to action Saturday afternoon in the Vines Center. Liberty will take on UNC Greensboro. The Spartans are 4-2 on the season and will face Presbyterian Tuesday night. UNCG is coming off a 25 win season that included a 7 point win over the Flames last December.
