The Liberty Flames (12-4, 3-0) and Eastern Kentucky Colonels (9-7, 2-1) will meet Sunday afternoon in Richmond, Kentucky.
EKU played a challenging non-conference schedule that included games against Cincinnati and Tennessee. They have opened ASUN play with three games decided by five points or less. The Colonels knocked off Queens and defeated Central Arkansas in their two wins that were sandwiched around a loss at Kennesaw State.
“A.W. (Hamilton) is a terrific coach,” said Liberty head coach Ritchie McKay. “They play such a different brand of basketball than most anyone in the league. I know we will have to be well-conditioned. Last year’s game, it was an incredible game. I think we were up 20 in the first half and they came all the way back. It was a one possession game. Keeg (McDowell) had a great night. I think that will be four games in 11 days, the tanks are a little empty. We have to get them a little refreshed.”
Here’s everything you need to know for Sunday’s matchup:
How to Watch – Liberty Flames (12-4, 3-0) vs Eastern Kentucky (9-7, 2-1)
- Date: Sunday, Jan. 8, 2023
- Start Time: 1:00 p.m. ET
- TV: ESPN+
- Online Streaming: Watch ESPN
- Radio (Lynchburg): LFSN Radio (107.5 FM)
Odds and Statistics
- KenPom currently gives Liberty a 80 percent chance to win the game with a predicted score of 73-64.
- ESPN’s Basketball Power Index currently gives Liberty a 78.3 percent chance to win the game.
Previous Matchup
- Liberty leads the all-time series, 3-2.
- In last year’s only meeting, the Flames built a large first half lead and were able to withstand a late EKU rally, to secure a 91-84 win.
- Darius McGhee led the team with 21 points while Keegan McDowell added 19 points on five made three pointers.
Probable Starters
Stat Leaders (2022 Season)
Liberty:
- Points: Darius McGhee – 22.0 PPG
- Rebounds: Joseph Venzant – 5.3 RPG
- Assists: Kyle Rode – 3.9 APG
Ritchie McKay Press Conference Pre-Eastern Kentucky
