Nevada Rallies Late to Defeat Liberty in NIT Second Round

No. 2 seed Nevada closes game on 15-2 run to top Liberty 73-63 and advance to NIT quarterfinals.

Mar. 23, 2026 at 2:19am

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In a second-round matchup of the 2026 NIT, No. 2 seed Nevada came from behind to defeat Liberty 73-63 at the Lawlor Events Center. The Flames led by as many as eight points in the second half, but Nevada closed the game on a 15-2 run to secure the victory and advance to the quarterfinals.

Why it matters

This game marked the end of Liberty's season, as they were the final Conference USA team remaining in the NIT tournament. Nevada, on the other hand, will move on to face either Auburn or Seattle U in the quarterfinals as they look to continue their postseason run.

The details

Liberty led 54-50 with under 10 minutes to play, but Nevada battled back to tie the game at 58-58. The Flames' Brett Decker Jr. hit a big three-pointer to put Liberty back on top 61-58, but Nevada closed the game on a 15-2 run, including a key three-pointer from Tayshawn Comer, to secure the victory. Nevada's Corey Camper Jr. recorded a triple-double with 10 points, 13 rebounds and 10 assists.

  • The game was played on Saturday evening, March 23, 2026.
  • Liberty led 54-50 with 9:54 remaining in the second half.
  • Nevada evened the game at 58-58 with 5:22 left on the clock.
  • Brett Decker Jr. hit a three-pointer to put Liberty up 61-58 with 4:57 remaining.
  • Nevada then closed the game on a 15-2 run to win 73-63.

The players

Corey Camper Jr.

Nevada player who recorded a triple-double with 10 points, 13 rebounds and 10 assists.

Elijah Price

Nevada player who had a double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds.

Brett Decker Jr.

Liberty sophomore who scored a game-high 20 points.

Zach Cleveland

Liberty senior playing in his final game, recording 16 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 blocks and 1 steal.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

The takeaway

This game highlighted the resilience of the Nevada Wolf Pack, who were able to overcome a late Liberty lead and close out the victory with a strong finish. The loss marks the end of the season for the Liberty Flames, but they can be proud of their 26-8 record and second-round NIT appearance.