Liberty Vs Middle Tennessee: Flames Outlast Blue Raiders In Thrilling Championship Game

It was a game that had everything—intensity, drama, and a finish that left fans cheering long after the final buzzer. In the highly anticipated Liberty vs Middle Tennessee showdown, the Flames took on the Blue Raiders in Huntsville, Alabama, on Saturday night and walked away with a hard-fought 53-48 victory. With this win, Liberty not only claimed their first Conference USA championship but also secured their first NCAA tournament bid since 2018. The journey to this moment has been years in the making, and the Flames made sure to seize the opportunity in style.

Emma Hess Comes Up Big in Crunch Time

With the game hanging in the balance, Liberty’s Emma Hess delivered when it mattered most. Just over a minute remained when she launched a deep three-pointer from well beyond the arc, sinking it to give her team a six-point cushion. The Blue Raiders weren’t done yet—Jalynn Gregory answered right back with a three-pointer of her own to cut the lead to three with 45 seconds to go.

The tension in the arena was palpable. When Liberty’s Asia Boone missed a short jumper, Middle Tennessee had a golden opportunity to tie the game. They got the ball into Gregory’s hands, but in an unfortunate turn of events, she stepped out of bounds while trying to create space for a shot. That misstep sealed their fate. Hess then calmly knocked down two clutch free throws in the closing seconds to ensure Liberty’s victory.

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Source: Liberty wins Conference USA title for 1st NCAA bid since 2018

A Season of Hard Work Pays Off

For Liberty, this win was the reward for an incredible season. As the top-seeded team in the tournament, they played with confidence and determination, securing their 26th victory of the year—a feat they’ve only accomplished once in the last decade. Since moving to Conference USA, the team has been steadily building toward this moment, and this championship win is proof of their rise.

Defense has been their calling card, and it was on full display in the final moments of this championship showdown. Liberty’s ability to shut down Middle Tennessee when it counted most was a key factor in their success.

Liberty vs Middle Tennessee: Flames Outlast Blue Raiders in Thrilling Championship Game

Big Performances Across the Board

Hess finished the game with 14 points, knocking down three of her seven three-point attempts. She wasn’t the only one stepping up—Asia Boone chipped in with 11 points, while fifth-year senior Bella Smuda recorded a double-double with 10 points and 13 rebounds. Smuda’s presence in the paint helped Liberty control the boards and limit Middle Tennessee’s second-chance opportunities.

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For the Blue Raiders, Ta’Mia Scott put on a show, leading all scorers with 23 points and adding 10 rebounds. Anastasiia Boldyreva was also a force, scoring 12 points and pulling down eight rebounds. Despite their efforts, Middle Tennessee struggled against Liberty’s late-game defense and couldn’t capitalize on their opportunities.

What’s Next

With the championship secured, Liberty now shifts its focus to the NCAA tournament. It’s their first appearance in seven years, and they’re heading in with confidence. Their ability to handle pressure in close games will be a major advantage as they take on some of the nation’s best teams.

For Middle Tennessee, the loss is disappointing, but their season might not be over just yet. With a strong 26-8 record, they remain in contention for an at-large bid. Selection Sunday will determine their fate, but there’s still hope that they’ll be dancing in March.

One thing is for certain—Liberty has arrived. This championship win is just the beginning, and they’re ready to show the nation what they’re capable of on college basketball’s biggest stage.