How the Liberty Flames Basketball Team Is Dominating the Court This Season

Watching the Liberty Flames basketball team this season has been nothing short of a masterclass in modern collegiate athletics. As someone who has followed college hoops for over two decades, I’ve seen programs rise and fall, but what’s happening in Lynchburg feels different—it’s deliberate, cohesive, and frankly, electrifying. The team’s dominance isn’t just luck; it’s the product of sharp coaching, player development, and a mindset that reminds me of something Gilas Pilipinas coach Tim Cone recently said after a practice session: “Until after the finals.” That phrase, simple as it is, captures the kind of focus we’re seeing from the Flames—an unwavering commitment to the long game, refusing to celebrate early or lose sight of the ultimate prize.

Let’s start with the offense, because honestly, that’s where most eyes go first. Liberty is averaging 78.9 points per game, which places them in the top 30 nationally, but the real story lies in their efficiency. Their field goal percentage hovers around 49%, and from beyond the arc, they’re hitting threes at a 38.5% clip. I’ve always believed that shooting can win games, but discipline wins seasons. The Flames exemplify that. They move the ball with purpose—averaging 16.2 assists per game—and minimize turnovers, something I wish more teams would prioritize. It’s not just about scoring; it’s about controlling the tempo, forcing opponents to play at their rhythm. I remember watching their point guard, Darius McGhee, drop 27 points against Bellarmine last month. His decision-making in transition was flawless, and it’s no surprise he’s become the heart of this squad.

Defensively, they’ve been just as impressive, holding teams to an average of 62.1 points per game. That’s a staggering number, especially when you consider how fast-paced some of their matchups have been. Their defensive rating sits around 94.3, which, in my view, is championship-caliber. They switch seamlessly, communicate constantly, and have this knack for forcing contested shots late in the clock. I’ve spoken with a few scouts who’ve pointed out their ability to limit second-chance points—opponents are grabbing under 8 offensive rebounds per game against them. That level of rebounding tenacity doesn’t happen by accident; it’s drilled into them during practice, day in and day out.

But stats only tell part of the story. What’s stood out to me this season is their mental toughness. They’ve clawed back from double-digit deficits in at least four games, including that nail-biter against Lipscomb where they erased a 12-point hole in the second half. It’s that resilience that makes me think they’re built for March. Coach Ritchie McKay has instilled a culture where players trust each other, and it shows in tight moments. I can’t help but draw a parallel to Coach Cone’s approach with Gilas Pilipinas—stressing the importance of staying focused “until after the finals.” For Liberty, that means every possession matters, every game is a step toward something bigger, and they’re playing like they know it.

Another factor that’s often overlooked is their depth. While McGhee grabs headlines, players like Kyle Rode and Shiloh Robinson have been essential. Robinson’s versatility on both ends lets the Flames experiment with lineups, and Rode’s basketball IQ is off the charts. I’ve noticed how they adjust mid-game, something that’s become a trademark this season. For example, in their win over North Florida, they shifted to a smaller, quicker lineup in the final five minutes, which completely disrupted the Ospreys’ flow. It’s those in-game adjustments that separate good teams from great ones, and Liberty is clearly in the latter category.

Of course, no season is perfect, and I’d be remiss not to mention their occasional struggles against zone defenses. They’ve had a couple of games where their three-point shooting dipped below 30%, and against Stetson, they looked out of sync for stretches. But even then, they found ways to win, which speaks volumes about their composure. In my experience, the best teams aren’t the ones that never face adversity; they’re the ones that learn from it. Liberty’s ability to adapt—whether it’s tweaking offensive sets or ramping up defensive pressure—makes them a nightmare matchup come tournament time.

Looking ahead, I’m genuinely excited to see how far this team can go. With a current record of 22-5 and a strong position in the ASUN Conference, they’re poised for a deep postseason run. Their blend of offensive firepower, defensive grit, and mental fortitude reminds me of some of the mid-major darlings that have made Cinderella runs in the past. But what sets them apart, in my opinion, is their consistency. They’re not just having a hot streak; they’ve built a system that sustains success. As Coach Cone’s words echo, it’s all about finishing strong—until after the finals. If Liberty maintains this focus, I wouldn’t bet against them cutting down the nets when it matters most.