LIBERTY – The Liberty Redhawks evened their record at 2–1 with a dominant 69–45 victory over Rondout before the Christmas break, using balanced scoring and aggressive defense to overwhelm the Ganders.

Liberty placed four players in double figures, spreading the floor and the scoring load in a performance that underscored the team’s depth and athleticism. Forward Zach Alvord led the way with 15 points, showcasing his speed, playmaking ability, and perimeter touch. Alvord knocked down three three-pointers and consistently created matchup problems for the Ganders.

Senior center Joe Dibartolo also added 15 points of his own. The 6-foot-11 Dibartolo, still learning how to fully harness his size, had a few awkward putbacks around the rim but energized the crowd with a powerful two-handed dunk. His physical presence remains a work in progress, but the potential is unmistakable.

Adrien Ferguson chipped in 14 points, pairing solid on-ball defense with multiple fast-break layups, while Cameron Lawson rounded out the balanced attack with 11 points as the Redhawks steadily pulled away.

Rondout was led by Oliver Nneji, who scored a game-high 20 points in the loss. Nneji impressed with his shooting range beyond the arc and his ability to attack the basket, but the Raiders struggled to keep pace with Liberty’s depth and defensive pressure.

After the game, Liberty head coach Robinson praised his team’s offense but emphasized that the win was built on defense.

“We have a lot of good athletes and a lot of good basketball players,” Robinson said. “But it starts on the defensive end. Getting blocks and rebounds leads to the fast break.”

Robinson was quick to note that the Redhawks still have room to improve.

“We played terrible defense in the first quarter, even though the score might not have reflected it,” he said. “I’m hoping we get better each game. Most of our starters are upperclassmen—two seniors and the rest juniors—so we expect growth.”

With speed, size, and scoring depth, the Redhawks are beginning to take shape as a team capable of making a strong run this season.