FAIRFAX, Va. (Interstat) — Liberty built a large early lead and withstood a furious second-half rally by George Mason to win 77-71 in a men’s NCAA Division I basketball game Tuesday night at EagleBank Arena.

The Flames led 34-24 at halftime and expanded their advantage before the Patriots surged. Jahari Long scored 27 points for George Mason, fueling the comeback attempt. Liberty’s Josh Smith countered with 23 points to help secure the win. Brett Decker added 17 points for the Flames.

Liberty improved to 26-7. George Mason fell to 23-10. Attendance was 1,485.