KENNESAW, Ga. (Interstat) — Kennesaw State used a strong second half to defeat Liberty 74-65 in a Conference USA men’s basketball game Thursday night at KSU Convocation Center.

The Owls, who led 32-29 at halftime, outscored the Flames 42-36 after the break to pull away. RJ Johnson led all scorers with 25 points for Kennesaw State, adding five assists. Frankquon Sherman added 18 points for the Owls.

JJ Harper paced Liberty with 14 points. Brett Decker scored 15 and Zach Cleveland added 10 for the Flames.

Liberty shot poorly from the floor, while Kennesaw State found its rhythm. The upset improved Kennesaw State to 17-11 overall. Liberty fell to 23-5. Attendance was 2,046.