Preview: Liberty Patriots vs. Mojave Rattlers
The Liberty Patriots will look to defend their home court on Friday against the Mojave Rattlers at 6:30 p.m. Keep an eye on the score for this one: the pair posted some lofty point totals in their previous games.
Last Thursday, Liberty faced Desert Pines in a battle between two of the state's top teams. Liberty was just a bucket shy of victory and fell 62-61 to Desert Pines. Liberty's loss signaled the end of their three-game winning streak.
Despite the loss, Liberty saw an underclassman step up: Tyler Bright dropped a double-double on 20 points and ten rebounds. The team also got some help courtesy of Jace Aquiningoc, who scored 12 points.
Mojave won a close one the last time they played, but unfortunately they suffered a serious change of fortune two weeks ago. They were the victim of a rough 81-60 defeat at the hands of Arbor View.
The losing side was boosted by C.J. Shaw, who scored 29 points along with seven rebounds and two steals. Shaw is crushing the steal category: he's posted at least two every time he's taken the court this season. Zacarrion Jackson was another key contributor, dropping a double-double on 12 points and 11 rebounds.
Liberty's defeat ended a four-game streak of away wins and brought them to 18-3. As for Mojave, their loss dropped their record down to 13-11.
This contest is one where the number of possessions is likely to be a big factor: Liberty have been smashing the glass this season, having averaged 35 rebounds per game. However, it's not like Mojave struggles in that department as they've been averaging 29 rebounds per game. Given these competing strengths, it'll be interesting to see how their clash plays out.
Liberty beat Mojave 61-52 in their previous matchup back in January. Will Liberty repeat their success, or does Mojave have a new game plan this time around? We'll find out soon enough.
