LIBERTY—The Liberty High basketball team has now lost seven straight after dropping back-to-back games to Blacksburg and Pendleton last week.

Liberty now sits at 4-11 overall with an 0-6 record in the region.

The Red Devils’ problems began during a trip to Blacksburg where they were clearly outmatched during a 69-33 blowout on Jan. 8.

A slow start plagued Liberty during the contest, allowing Blacksburg to jump out to a 17-point halftime lead. Blacksburg then drove the nail into the coffin in a third quarter surge that sent the Red Devils into the final quarter down 44-14.

Evan Rhodes led the effort against Blacksburg with 12 points and 13 rebounds. Jeremiah Hunt added seven of his own, while Tristen West contributed five to the losing effort.

The Devils had hopes of bouncing back against Pendleton at home on Jan. 11, but those hopes were doused as Liberty trailed away in a 54-42 loss.

Despite the slow start against Blacksburg, Liberty came out hot against Pendleton at home, taking a 13-12 lead at the end of the first quarter. The Red Devils were outscored 14-9 in the second, however, and went into the half down by four.

Pendleton extended the margin in the second half, outscoring Liberty 28-20 and securing the win.

Hunt led the effort for the devils, scoring 12 points on the night. Brady Autrey also had a big game with 11 of his own.

Liberty has another busy week ahead. The Red Devils faced Carolina Academy on Monday (results were not available at press time), and will host Chesnee this Friday in another region contest.

Liberty has a total of eight region games remaining on the schedule.

Tip-off for Friday’s contest against Chesnee is set for 7:30 p.m.