The Flames are back in action at the Vines Center for a 12:00 showdown with first-place High Point. Here’s what you need to know about the Panthers:

1. High Point is 13-6 on the season and 6-2 in Big South play.

Photo courtesy bigsouthsports.com

The Panthers had started conference play 5-0 before dropping consecutive games to Winthrop and Coastal Carolina.

2. In a matchup featuring two teams at the top of the league standings, HPU defeated Asheville Wednesday night.

Photo courtesy collegesportmadness.com

They dominated on the glass (+22) and in 2nd chance points (+16).

3. John Brown had 26 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 blocks in the win.

Photo courtesy rushthecourt.net

The preseason Big South Player of the Year is averaging 19.6 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game. He ranks 2nd in scoring, 5th in rebounding, and 2nd in blocks in the conference.

4. Lorenzo Cugini leads the country in 3-point FG%.

Photo courtesy campuschron.com

He is shooting 54.7% from behind the arc, but is just 1/9 in his last 2 games.

5. High Point was the preseason pick to win the Big South Championship.

Photo courtesy atlallday.com

The Panthers just edged out Coastal Carolina in first place and total votes.

6. The Flames hold a 19-16 series lead against the Panthers.22921326853_bc92146fca_z

High Point has won 3 straight and 5 of the past 6. Liberty has not beaten High Point in the Vines Center since February 12, 2011.

7. Coach McKay was 3-1 against High Point during his first stint at Liberty.mckay1