Editing Liberty University Basketball (section)

=== The Rise of Liberty Basketball: Recent Successes ===
Liberty’s basketball program has seen a notable resurgence in the past decade. Under the leadership of head coach Ritchie McKay, who took over the program in 2015, the Flames have experienced their most successful stretch in recent history. McKay, known for his defensive prowess and disciplined approach, has instilled a culture of hard work, resilience, and character. His emphasis on strong defense, team-oriented play, and unselfishness has transformed Liberty basketball into a top-tier mid-major program.

The Flames have become regular contenders for the ASUN title, and their sustained success has allowed them to earn several NCAA Tournament berths. In 2019, Liberty won the ASUN championship and earned their first-ever victory in the NCAA Tournament, defeating Mississippi State in a thrilling First Four game. That victory was symbolic of Liberty’s potential to break through on the national stage, showcasing their combination of smarts, grit, and skill.