LYNCHBURG, Va. (Interstat) — Liberty survived a furious second-half comeback by New Mexico State to secure a 73-71 victory in a Conference USA men’s basketball game Thursday night at Vines Center.

The Flames built a 46-29 halftime lead behind 17 points from JJ Harper. The Aggies stormed back after the break, outscoring Liberty 42-27 and tying the game late. Anthony Wrzeszcz led New Mexico State with 16 points.

Liberty’s Zach Cleveland hit two free throws with 1.1 seconds remaining for the final margin. Brett Decker also scored 17 for the Flames. Jemel Jones had 15 for the Aggies.

Liberty improved to 14-3. New Mexico State fell to 9-7. An announced crowd of 2,580 attended.