Brooklyn, N.Y.- The Hunter College men's basketball team picked up its first win of the season in an 88-54 win over Pratt Institute on the road on Tuesday evening. The Hawks advance to 1-2 with the win while Pratt falls to 2-1, as Hunter handed the team its first loss of the 2023-24 slate.

The Hawks jumped out to an early lead, gaining an 8-0 advantage in the first three minutes of play that set the tone for the remainder of the night. Hunter dominated the first half, finishing with a commanding lead of 48-27 with a field goal percentage of 51.43%. Hunter maintained its dominance in the second half, outscoring Pratt 40-27 as they shot for 50.0% from beyond the arc.

Kareem McDonald showcased an impressive performance, leading in points with 24 while shooting 4-6 from three in addition to four steals on the night. Jack Meyers recorded his second double-double of the year with 15 points (6-11 FG, 2-4 3PT) and 12 rebounds. Luka Jakic also finished in double-digit scoring with 11 points on the night.

Hunter's bench played a significant role in the win as they added 25 points led by Corey Jones Jr. with nine (3-6 FG, 3-4 3PT) in addition to a trio of assists. Casey Meyers aided in the victory with a career-high eight assists.

The Purple and Gold finished the night at 53.1% and knocked down a season-high 16 threes as a team.

"Defensively we are getting better and it showed tonight" said head coach Jamel Gist of his first win at the helm of Hunter's men's basketball team, "We will use this game as a building block as we prepare for the TCNJ tournament Friday."

The Hawks held Pratt to a field goal percentage of 32.7% and a three-point percentage of 25.0% while forcing 15 turnovers, including eight steals, to convert 22 points. Hunter out-rebounded the Cannoneers 44-33 overall with 34 of them on defense.

Hunter continues its season on the road with games against Wells and The College of New Jersey at the Lion's tournament this weekend.