The Oregon Ducks and Liberty Flames have endured a prolonged wait, but the commencement of their respective journeys in the 2025 NCAA Tournament is imminent. In the concluding match of the initial round, both the Ducks and Flames aim to sustain their season and progress to the second round, scheduled for Sunday in Seattle.
Following a robust conclusion to the season, securing victories in eight of their last nine matches, Dana Altman and the Ducks are favoured in this game, as indicated by the betting line and tournament seed line. Under the leadership of the formidable Nate Bittle, Oregon’s interior dominance and robust defence are expected to be prominently showcased in a matchup where physicality may prove decisive against Liberty.
Concurrently, the Flames present a significant threat, particularly in March. They performed exceptionally well towards the conclusion of the season and secured the Conference USA Championship, so obtaining an automatic bid to the tournament. Concerning possible upset bids, the Flames qualify as a team capable of advancing to the second round. In the previous season, Liberty achieved a 39% success rate on 3-pointers, ranking seventh nationally. If they do well on Friday night against the Ducks, some fans may consider them a Cinderella contender in the tournament.
A matchup between the No. 5 and No. 12 seeds in the tournament consistently entertains viewers, having historically yielded numerous upsets. This year, No. 12 Colorado State defeated No. 5 Memphis, while No. 12 McNeese triumphed against No. 5 Clemson. Oregon aims to halt the recent trend and progress to the Round of 32.
Oregon’s supremacy persists as Liberty experiences a scoring drought – Oregon 60, Liberty 31 (10:22, 2H)
The Ducks maintain a comfortable lead over Liberty but must be vigilant – Oregon 52, Liberty 31 (14:33, 2H)
First Half Statistics – Oregon 44, 20
Oregon
Field Goal Percentage: 55%
Three-Point Field Goal Percentage: 55
Rebounds: 22
AST: 5
To: 7
Paint Points: Ten
Points from Bench: 10
Jackson Shelstad: 15 points (3/4 from three-point range) // Nate Bittle: 9 points, 8 rebounds
Freedom
Field Goal Percentage: 25%
Three-Point Field Goal Percentage: 13 Rebounds: 13 Assists: 7 Turnovers: 7
Paint Points: 10 Bench Points: 0
Kaden Metheny: 6 points (2/7 from three-point range) // Zach Cleveland: 6 points (2 of 6 field goals)
Jackson Shelstad intensifies the competition as the first half concludes – Oregon 44, Liberty 20 (Halftime)
