LIBERAL 49, GREAT BEND 45
LIBERAL — Western Athletic Conference leader Liberal was tested to the limit in a 49-45 WAC basketball victory over pesky Great Bend. The Panthers (5-14, 1-6 WAC) finish the week with a 2-1 record. The Panthers play at Hays Feb. 24.
Jacob Murray led the Panthers with 12 points and Kody Crosby added 11 points. Liberal (16-2, 5-1 WAC) was paced by Cade Hinkle and Deladris Green with 16 points apiece.
The Panthers got within 41-39 on Ty Esfeld’s steal and layup. But Markalyn Eatmon and Green converted four free throws after an intentional foul against Jacob Murray for a 45-39 lead.
“Our defense gives us a chance to win,” said Great Bend coach Tim Brooks. “We got them out of rhythm. We cause teams problems because of the way we play.”

Great Bend 8 6 16 15 – 45
Liberal 16 4 17 12 – 49
GREAT BEND—Jacob Murray 12, Kody Crosby 11, Koy Brack 7, Logan Perry 6, Konner Ireland 5, Ty Esfeld 4.
LIBERAL—Cade Hinkle 16, Deladris Green 16, Kylan Thomas 9, Markalyn Eatmon 4, Alex Carrillo 1.

WESTERN ATHLETIC BOYS
Liberal 5-1 16-2
Garden 5-2 9-10
Hays High 4-2 11-6
Dodge City 1-5 3-15
Great Bend 1-6 5-14

FRIDAY’S GAMES
Great Bend 45, Dodge City 39
Hays High 63, Garden City 57

SATURDAY’S GAME
Liberal 49, Great Bend 45