Liberty Flames Face Off Against Jacksonville State for CUSA Championship

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — The Liberty University Flames and Jacksonville State Gamecocks are set to battle for the Conference USA Championship on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 8:30 p.m. ET at the Von Braun Center. The winner will secure an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.

Liberty, the No. 1 seed in the conference, enters the game with a 27-6 overall record and a conference record of 13-5. The Flames have been on a hot streak in the tournament, shooting nearly 65% from inside the arc in their last two games. In contrast, the No. 2 seeded Gamecocks carry a record of 22-11 with a 12-6 conference mark and have lost four of their last nine games.

Liberty’s offensive prowess will be on full display, particularly from deep. They have attempted 91 three-pointers in three tournament games, making 42 of those shots. Kaden Metheny, a key player for the Flames, has significantly improved his shooting, hitting 52.4% from three-point range during the tournament.

“We’re just getting hot at the right time,” said Metheny. “We’ve been working hard, and everyone is stepping up their game.”

Jacksonville State’s defensive struggles will be tested as they face a Liberty team averaging 40% shooting from beyond the arc. The Gamecocks’ defense gave up 11 three-pointers to Middle Tennessee State in their last matchup, relying on offensive rebounds to stay competitive. However, they will need to tighten their defense against a Flames team that thrives beyond the arc.

“We need to control the perimeter; Liberty shoots the three really well,” said Jacksonville State head coach. “If we can limit their open looks, we’ll have a chance.”

Historically, Liberty has performed well against Jacksonville State this season, leading at halftime in both earlier matchups and covering the spread in 19 of their last 30 games. The Flames held the Gamecocks to just a 15.8% free throw rate in their last encounter, showcasing their defensive excellence.

The Flames are also recognized for their strong defensive statistics, ranking in the top 25 nationally for limiting free throw opportunities. This could be crucial against a Jacksonville State team that needs to capitalize on fouls to stay in the game.

The matchup is generating excitement among fans and analysts alike, with expectations of a close contest. Liberty is currently favored by 5.5 points, with an over/under set at 131.5. Though Jacksonville State has displayed resilience, the consensus indicates that Liberty’s combination of offensive firepower and defensive discipline positions them strongly to secure the championship.

With the stakes high and a spot in the NCAA Tournament on the line, both teams are anticipated to put forth a hard-fought contest in a potential showdown for March Madness.