The Liberty Flames (20-6, 11-2) and Eastern Kentucky Colonels (17-9, 10-3) will meet Saturday evening in Lynchburg, Virginia at Liberty Arena.

Eastern Kentucky has been one of the surprise teams of the ASUN this year as they enter Saturday’s contest just one game behind Liberty and Kennesaw State for first place in the conference race. The Colonels were the first team to beat the Flames in conference play and also sport a win over KSU.

“We’re not really a revenge program,” Liberty head coach Ritchie McKay said of the rematch from the earlier loss this season. “I think that is short-term motivation. Obviously our guys are aware that they are right next to us in the standings. So, the significance of the game is heightened. It’s another chance to get better.”

EKU was just 8-7 midway through the season, but they have rebounded to win nine of their past 11 games including wins over the two teams tied for first place in the ASUN. This game will be crucial for both team’s chances at the number one overall seed and home court advantage throughout the ASUN Tournament. Whoever loses the game, will have a difficult time rebounding to earn the one seed.

“I think we’re different and so are they,” McKay said of the two teams since the first meeting. “I think having had a chance to see individual personnel is good, but one game is never the same as the next. We will get rested, go through our scout, practice, and see if we can’t be well rested for Saturday night’s game.”

Here’s everything you need to know for Saturday’s matchup:

How to Watch – Liberty Flames (20-6, 11-2) vs Eastern Kentucky (17-9, 10-3)

  • Date: Saturday, Feb. 11, 2023
  • Start Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
  • TV: ESPN+
  • Online Streaming: Watch ESPN
  • Radio (Lynchburg): LFSN Radio (107.5 FM)

Odds and Statistics

  • KenPom currently gives Liberty an 89 percent chance to win the game with a predicted score of 76-62.
  • ESPN’s Basketball Power Index currently gives Liberty an 92.9 percent chance to win the game.

Previous Matchup

  • The series is tied 3-3.
  • EKU defeated Liberty, 62-59, on Jan. 8 in Richmond, Kentucky.
  • Liberty was just 4 of 23 from three and Darius McGhee scored just 7 points. Devontae Blanton (16) and Cooper Robb (15) led the Colonels in scoring.

Probable Starters

Stat Leaders (2022-23 Season)

Liberty:

  • Points: Darius McGhee – 20.8 PPG
  • Rebounds: Joseph Venzant – 5.2 RPG
  • Assists: Colin Porter – 4.1 APG

Ritchie McKay Press Conference Pre-EKU