LIBERTY WINS HOOPS AT NOON CLASSIC
LIBERTY, OH- The Liberty Leopards claimed victory over the Lisbon Blue Devils in a high-energy matchup at the Hoops at Noon Classic on Liberty’s home court. Played in front of a packed house of students and select academic achievers, the Leopards edged out the Blue Devils 64-58 in an entertaining contest that showcased grit and determination on both sides.
Liberty came out firing in the first quarter, putting up 20 points to Lisbon’s 14. The Leopards rode the wave of their home crowd’s energy, creating an early cushion that would prove critical. Lisbon kept things close in the second quarter, holding Liberty to just 11 points while scoring 9 of their own, leaving the Leopards ahead 31-23 at halftime.
The Blue Devils found their rhythm in the third quarter, outscoring Liberty 19-13. They clawed their way back into the game, fueled by a strong effort on both ends of the floor. Heading into the final period, the Leopards’ lead had been trimmed to just 44-42.
But Liberty wasn’t about to let this one slip away. The Leopards cranked up the intensity in the fourth quarter, dropping 20 points while holding Lisbon to 16. The balanced attack and key defensive stops sealed the deal, securing Liberty’s first win in the Hoops at Noon Classic series.
AJ Ramgeet led all scorers with 27 for Lisbon, and Aiden Ramgeet finished with 10. For Liberty, Dearmani Franklin had 14, Evan Bates had 13, Joe Croom had a dozen and Ramsey Hadi-Cox dropped nine.
The Hoops at Noon Classic will continue in February when the schools’ girls’ basketball teams square off in Lisbon. If this game is any indication, fans can expect another electrifying showdown.