First place in Conference USA is at stake Thursday as Jacksonville State travels to Liberty for a pivotal late-season matchup.
The Gamecocks (19-9, 11-4 CUSA) hold a slim half-game lead over the Flames (22-5, 10-4) entering the showdown at Liberty Arena in Lynchburg, Virginia. The winner will take sole possession of first place with only three regular-season games remaining. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. ET on ESPN+.
Both teams are some of the best mid-major teams in the country this season. Liberty ranks No. 9 in the latest Mid-Major Basketball Power 20, while Jacksonville State is in the “Next Five Up” category.
Pierre Powers the Offense
Jax State guard Jaron Pierre Jr. ranks among the nation’s top scorers, sitting third in total points and second in points per game (22.1). He leads CUSA in scoring and has set program records for single-season points (618), points per game, and field goals made (211). Pierre has posted five 30-point games this season, the most by any Gamecock in two decades.
Defensive Anchor
Mason Nicholson leads the Gamecocks’ defense after blocking a career-high six shots against UTEP on Feb. 22. He has recorded three or more blocks in 10 games this season and leads the team with 49.
Home Strength, Road Test
Jax State boasts a 12-1 home record but suffered its lone home loss on Feb. 20 against New Mexico State. On the road, the Gamecocks are 6-6. Now, the Gamecocks look to maintain their spot atop the conference standings with a critical road victory.
