Basketball Recap: Jerimiah Washpun's Big Game Can't Quite Lead Liberty over Iowa City

Liberty was not able to break out of their rough patch on Thursday as the team picked up their fourth straight loss dating back to last season. They were six points away from ending the streak, but they lost a 59-53 heartbreaker at the hands of the Iowa City Little Hawks. The Lightning were given a dose of their own medicine in this game as the Little Hawks apparently hadn't forgotten their defeat the last time these teams played back in January.

Liberty's loss came despite a true team effort from the offense, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Jerimiah Washpun, who posted 17 points along with six rebounds and five assists. The dominant performance also gave Washpun a new career-high in steals (two). Brady Randall was another key player, putting up 11 points along with five boards and three blocks.

Even though they lost, Liberty smashed the offensive glass and finished the game with 11 offensive boards. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now pulled down at least ten offensive rebounds in three consecutive matches.

Liberty's defeat dropped their record down to 0-3. As for Iowa City, with the win, they broke their six-game losing streak and moved their record to 2-6.

Both teams are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Liberty will take on Ankeny Centennial in a holiday battle at at 6:15 p.m. on Monday. Iowa City and Dubuque Senior will compete for holiday cheer at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday.