Lady Flames Go 2-0 in Two Game Western Road Swing

Take Over First Place in CUSA

Hess Surpasses 1,000 Point Career Milestone

Photos courtesy of Liberty Athletics

The Liberty University women’s basketball team completed a successful two-game western road trip, displaying their depth and resilience. The Lady Flames, led by Emma Hess’s career milestone, achieved victories over UTEP and New Mexico State, improving their record to 12-5 overall and 5-1 in Conference USA (CUSA) play.

These wins propelled Liberty into first place in the CUSA standings, marking a significant milestone for the program in its second year in the conference.

Liberty 75, UTEP 64

In the first matchup against UTEP, Liberty secured a 75-64 victory. Hess was the standout, scoring 15 points and surpassing the 1,000-point career milestone with a pivotal three-pointer in the third quarter. The Lady Flames’ offensive firepower was clear with nine three-pointers, while their defense limited UTEP to just 34.4% shooting from the field. Liberty's bench made a strong impact, contributing 24 points. Jordan Hodges (12 points),

Emmy Stout (11 points), and Bella Smuda (8 points, 7 rebounds) supported the team’s balanced attack. Liberty’s second-quarter 8-0 runs were decisive, helping them build a lead UTEP could not overcome. Box Score

Liberty 82, New Mexico St. 72

Two days later, the Lady Flames continued their momentum with an 82-72 win over New Mexico State. Liberty’s shooting efficiency was exceptional, hitting 54.5% from the field, 55% from beyond the arc, and an impressive 88.5% from the free-throw line.

The team showed its depth, with four players scoring in double figures. Smuda led the way with 14 points and seven rebounds, while Hess and Hodges added 13 points each.

Liberty’s bench provided a critical boost, outscoring New Mexico State’s reserves 28-12. Despite committing 23 turnovers, Liberty controlled the boards (32-18) and made key free throws down the stretch to seal the victory. Box Score

This road trip highlighted Hess’s scoring consistency and leadership. Her performance, including joining the program's 1,000-point club, underscored her role as a key contributor. Smuda also reached career milestones, moving closer to the program’s all-time blocks record. The team’s collective effort, particularly their three-point shooting and rebounding dominance, proved pivotal in both games.

Now riding a four-game winning streak, Liberty prepares to return home for a three-game homestand, beginning with a matchup against FIU on January 25. This game will also celebrate the 50th anniversary of Liberty women’s basketball and the 20th anniversary of the program’s historic Sweet 16 run. With their recent successes, the Lady Flames aim to build on their strong start to conference play and keep their position atop the CUSA standings.