Cleveland, Liberty defeat Florida International 90-89 in OT

February 20, 2026 - 06:44

LYNCHBURG, Va. (AP) — In a heart-stopping contest that required extra time, the Liberty Flames narrowly defeated the Florida International Panthers 90-89 on Thursday night. The game was decided in the final moments of overtime, providing a dramatic finish for the home crowd.

Zach Cleveland emerged as the clutch performer for Liberty, scoring 18 points with five crucial points coming in the overtime period. His composure under pressure helped seal the hard-fought victory. The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams exchanging leads and neither able to secure a decisive advantage in regulation.

The Panthers showcased relentless effort, pushing the Flames to the limit and nearly pulling off an upset on the road. Their performance ensured the outcome remained uncertain until the final buzzer sounded. Liberty's resilience in the extra frame ultimately made the difference in this tightly contested matchup, improving their standing with a pivotal conference win. The contest highlighted the intensity of league play, where every possession can determine the final result.