LYNCHBURG, Va. (Interstat) — A surging Liberty squad looks to continue its dominance in Conference USA when it hosts a Missouri State team seeking a resume-building road win on Saturday at the Vines Center.

The Flames (19-3) enter the contest with one of the nation’s top records, having won nine consecutive games. Their last loss came on Dec. 28. Liberty’s balanced attack is led by guard Colin Porter, who is coming off a 23-point performance in a 75-69 win at Delaware on Wednesday. Over the last eight games, Porter has averaged 11.6 points and 3.6 assists.

Missouri State (13-9) has been inconsistent in league play but is fresh off a 74-67 home victory over Jacksonville State last Saturday. The Bears are powered by guard Keith Palek, who has scored 18 or more points in five of his last seven outings. In the win over Jacksonville State, Palek logged 38 minutes, contributing 18 points, four rebounds and six assists.

Liberty’s defense has been a cornerstone of its success, holding opponents to an average of 65.2 points during its nine-game win streak. The Flames have not allowed more than 74 points in any game during that span.

Missouri State has struggled away from home recently, with four of its last five road games resulting in losses. To challenge the conference frontrunner, the Bears will need to find scoring beyond Palek. Forward Michael Osei-Bonsu, who had 10 points and nine rebounds last game, will be key in the interior against Liberty’s physical lineup.

This marks the first meeting between the programs as Conference USA opponents. Liberty currently sits atop the conference standings, while Missouri State is in the middle of the pack. A win for the Flames would solidify their position, while the Bears aim to play spoiler and bolster their postseason prospects.

The game is scheduled for a 7 p.m. EST tip-off on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026.