Lady Flames Dominate FIU on Alumni Day

Liberty delivered an impressive performance in front of former players and staff during Alumni Day at Liberty Arena, securing an 83-54 victory over FIU. The Lady Flames, now 13-5 overall and 6-1 in Conference USA, shot an outstanding 58.9% from the field, extending their winning streak to five games. With this victory, Liberty remains tied with Middle Tennessee for first place in the conference standings.

Emma Hess led the charge with 16 points, supported by a deep bench effort that outscored FIU’s reserves 42-10. Liberty’s dominance on the boards and in the paint proved critical, as the Lady Flames out-rebounded FIU 36-26 and tallied a 44-30 advantage in points in the paint.

Saturday’s game was a special occasion, marking 50 years of Liberty women’s basketball and celebrating the 20th anniversary of the team’s Sweet 16 run in the 2005 NCAA Tournament. Alumni and fans witnessed standout performances, including contributions from Avery Mills (14 points), Pien Steenbergen (10 points), and Bella Smuda, who recorded eight points, nine rebounds, and five blocks.

FIU, falling to 7-11 overall and 3-4 in conference play, struggled offensively, shooting just 36.4% from the field. Star player Isnelle Natabou scored 20 points and grabbed five rebounds, but her efforts were not enough to keep the Panthers competitive.

Liberty’s bench ignited a pivotal 7-0 run late in the first quarter, erasing FIU’s early five-point lead. That momentum carried into the second quarter, where Liberty outscored FIU 29-13, effectively taking control of the game. Despite Natabou’s strong third-quarter effort, the Lady Flames maintained their lead and closed the game with a dominant 77.8% shooting performance in the final period.

The Lady Flames have now won seven consecutive home games, improving to 59-9 all-time at Liberty Arena and 18-4 against CUSA opponents since January 2024. Notably, Liberty has connected on 27 consecutive free throws and remains unbeaten this season when outrebounding its opponent.

Liberty looks to continue its hot streak on Thursday as they face former ASUN rival Kennesaw State (8-10, 3-4 CUSA) at 7 p.m. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN+.