ANNANDALE-ON-HUDSON, N.Y. - The Liberty League is well-known throughout Division III athletics for its parity. On any given night, all of the teams can beat any of the other nine squads. As a result, most Liberty League conference games are usually quite close.

That wasn't the case Friday night, as the Bard College men's basketball team steamrolled Clarkson University, 73-49. 

From the get-go, the Raptors soared. Bard began by going 11-for-11 from the field, five of which were three-pointers, to jump out a 28-5 advantage just nine minutes into the game.

The Raptors' epic night continued, as their lead eventually ballooned to as many as 30 points in the first half, before settling for a 49-20 halftime lead. The hosts finished the opening 20 minutes by shooting 67 percent in the frame, while holding the Golden Knights of Clarkson to just 26 percent.

In the second half, things started just as quickly for Bard, as the hosts extended their lead to 57-22 with just over 16 minutes left. 

The Golden Knights were able to bounce back in the second half, eventually cutting the deficit to 61-41 with less than 12 minutes to go. But it was too late for any real comeback attempt, as the Raptors collected another Liberty League win.

With the result, Bard improved to 10-7 overall and 6-4 in the league. Meanwhile, Clarkson dropped to 3-13 and 2-7. 

On the night, the Raptors shot 54 percent from the field, while Clarkson only managed 31 percent.

That was in large part due to the Bard defense. The squad pressed and trapped during the opening frame, eventually forcing the guests into 17 turnovers on the night. The hosts also tallied seven blocks in the win, as Bard allowed its fewest points in game since December 2014 at Albany Pharmacy. 

Individually, it was a balanced effort for the Raptors, as Alijah Rue led the team with 15 points. The sophomore guard also chipped in five assists, two blocks and three steals. Meanwhile, David Runcie added 13 points, while Zack Jacobs knocked down four three-pointers to finish with 12 points. 

Armando Dunn tallied 10 points and seven rebounds and Justyn Rogers finished with game-highs in rebounds (10) and assists (six).

As for Clarkson, no player finished in double figures.

Up next for Bard is a quick turnaround, as the team hosts St. Lawrence tomorrow (January 26th) at 4 p.m. You can follow that game right here.