Getting some run against top quality competition is always favorable in December and Liberty got a chance to see how they compare over the weekend when they played at the City of Love Basketball Showcase at Exeter.

The Hurricanes lost to Wilson West Lawn 45-43, but came away knowing they can compete with some of the best teams in the state after dropping their first game of the season.

Jake Pukszyn led the ‘Canes with 17 points and Jarrell Teague added 15 points to pace a two-headed attack.

“It was an incredible experience to play in the City of Basketball Love Showcase,” said Liberty head coach Nigel Long. “Wilson West Lawn is a very good program. Traditionally, they have been one of the best teams in the state. A nice litmus test for us this early in the season. Although we came up short, our guys battled and we were extremely proud of our effort.”

Liberty (2-1) knocked off Bethlehem Catholic 51-47 in their opener and Whitehall 45-40 to open up league play before traveling to Exeter over the weekend.

The Hurricanes now have a week with Pleasant Valley, Northampton and Scranton Prep on the docket.

“Pleased where we are so far, however, we have a ton of opportunity for growth ahead of us,” said Long. “In all phases we need to continue to improve. Offensively execution from screening and timing to off ball cutting and defensively keeping our opponents off of the free throw line. Playing without fouling and finally, continuing to emphasize offensive and defensive rebounding as a group.”

Freedom (3-2) has been back and forth with their results this season, as the Pates went 2-1 last week with wins over Nazareth and Emmaus, sandwiched by a 49-38 loss to Parkland.

Freedom has a three game slate again this week against Pocono Mountain East, Easton and Dallas.

Bethlehem Catholic (2-2) will be looked for their first local win of the season this week when they host Pocono Mountain West and Nazareth, capped off by a Saturday showdown at Crestwood.

The Hawks have lost to Liberty and Allen this year, but picked up wins over Brandywine Heights and Academy Park.