Darius McGhee had been struggling offensively for the Flames the past few games, but he caught fire and led Liberty (14-5, 6-2) past the Jacksonville Dolphins on Saturday night in Florida. With the win, Liberty sweeps the weekend series against the Dolphins and moves into a three-way tie for first place in the ASUN.
McGhee struggled to two single digit scoring performances in the two games at Stetson a couple weeks ago, scoring just 11 points that weekend. He had made just 3 of his last 19 three point attempts, but the 5’9″ junior guard would find his rhythm and score a career-high 25 points as he shot 8 of 14 from the field, 3 of 6 from three, and making all 6 of his free throw attempts.
Unlike Friday night, Liberty was much more efficient on the offensive end of the floor, shooting 45.1% from the field on the evening. The Flames continued to struggle from behind the arc, making just 6 of 22 (27.3%) from three point range. Kyle Rode had an off night, missing all seven of his three point attempts. The sophomore forward would score 4 points and led the team with 6 rebounds and 4 assists.
The Flames would lead throughout the game with the exception of 25 seconds in the opening minutes of action when Jacksonville grabbed a 6-5 lead. Liberty was able to withstand a span of 8 minutes and 8 seconds in the first half without a field goal as the Flames’ defense continues to stifle ASUN opponents, particularly on Saturday.
McGhee hit a highlight worthy, double-clutch three pointer as time expired in the first half to give Liberty its largest lead of the game at the time at 28-19.
Liberty was able to overcome the spectacular play from Jacksonville’s Dontarius James who had a game-high 27 points on 10 of 19 shooting from the field. The Flames were perfect from the line, making all 12 free throws.
Following his strong performance Friday night, Chris Parker also reached double figures with 13 points to go along with his 5 rebounds. Keegan McDowell had a strong night with 9 points and 4 rebounds. Elijah Cuffee added 7 points including a crucial offensive rebound and putback with 90 seconds left in the game to put the Flames ahead a comfortable 7 points.
Liberty is currently scheduled to return to Liberty Arena next Friday and Saturday and play host to the North Florida Ospreys. UNF is 7-11 overall and 5-3 in ASUN play following their win over North Alabama on Saturday to earn a weekend split.
That win by the Ospreys helps push Liberty into a three way tie for first place atop the ASUN standings as most of the teams have completed half of their conference schedule. The Flames are tied at 6-2 with North Alabama and Bellarmine. Liberty concludes the first half of conference play with three straight victories and having played 6 games on the road and just 2 at home. If the Flames are able to get the entire ASUN regular season schedule in, Liberty will play 6 games at home and just 2 on the road in the second half.
