HUNTSVILLE — Sam Houston could not overcome a halftime deficit in a 74-54 loss to Liberty on Saturday at Johnson Coliseum. 

The Bearkats (10-11, 3-8 CUSA) split their home series after defeating FIU on Thursday. 

Sam Houston hit a season-high seven 3-pointers, with Whitney Dunn leading the way with four, which is a new career high. 

Liberty held the Bearkats scoreless until the five-minute mark of the first quarter when Fanta Kone drew a foul and sank both free throws. Sam Houston responded with a 9-2 run to close the quarter down 12-9. 

The Bearkats struggled offensively in the second quarter as the Flames pulled away to a 38-14 halftime lead. Liberty controlled the game from there. 

Kone led Sam Houston with a career-high 16 points, while Deborah Ogayemi added 11. Aysia Ward-Strong recorded six rebounds and five steals. 

The Bearkats will travel east to face Jacksonville State and Kennesaw State next week. Both games will be broadcast on ESPN+.