It’s fair to say that year two for Nigel Long as Liberty’s basketball coach is going much smoother than last December.

After going 3-9 in a COVID shortened season a year ago, Liberty has already reached the three-win mark coming into this week.

For Long, it’s a welcomed change following last year’s challenging season.

“Last year was a disappointment but a learning lesson,” said Long. “Year two, the kids are much more comfortable and they know the expectations. Just having the offseason was huge for us. I’m pleased how we’ve attacked each day and keep growing.”

Liberty came into the week 3-1, picking up wins over Northampton and Southern Lehigh last week to give them a boost of momentum.

After losing to Nazareth by 18 in their league opener, Long feels like the team has taken strides, but still has plenty of room for improvement.

“We’re figuring ways to close out close games,” he said. “We have a ton of room to grow. A lot of stuff to correct, but I’m excited and pleased about the direction we’re heading, but not satisfied with where we’re at.”

Liberty has home games against Stroudsburg and Dieruff this Tuesday and Thursday before the holiday break where Long hopes they can continue to improve.

“Defensively we need play more consistent over four quarters,” said Long. “Last couple games we’ve done a good job in the second half on defense, but we need to start games better.”

Bethlehem Catholic (3-1) suffered their first loss of the season last week in a 39-31 defeat to an undefeated Central Catholic team, as the Hawks were without star player Edixon Gomez and starter Alex Cercado to injuries.

The Hawks host Pocono Mountain East on Tuesday and then travel to Easton on Thursday.

Freedom (0-3) has had a rough start to the season, dropping each of their games to Becahi, Spring-Ford and Allen. They hope to get some traction before the holiday break when they get two home games this week against Pleasant Valley and Nazareth.