LAS VEGAS — West Liberty came up just short in a thrilling neutral-site battle, falling 88–87 to No. 7 Lubbock Christian on Sunday afternoon at South Point Arena as part of the DII Holiday Hoops Classic.
The Hilltoppers (8-2, 3-0 MEC) mounted an impressive second-half rally, pouring in 53 points after the break, but a last-second basket allowed Lubbock Christian (12-2, 3-1 Lone Star) to escape with the narrow victory. West Liberty forced 21 turnovers and recorded 13 steals, while the bench accounted for 65 points in a game that featured multiple momentum swings down the stretch.
West Liberty opened the contest with early perimeter success as Landon Butler and Max Hurray each connected from three-point range. Lubbock Christian answered with efficient shooting and strong work on the glass, building a steady advantage throughout the opening half. Despite contributions from Cameron Williams and the Hilltopper bench, West Liberty trailed 46–34 at intermission.…