BOX SCORE New York, N.Y.- The Hunter College men's basketball team hosted United States Merchant Marine Academy in a non-conference match up on Tuesday evening, securing a 65-63 victory in the final minutes.

The win snapped a tough streak for the Hawks, improving their record to 2-7 overall, while the Mariners' dropped to 4-3. The game was a battle of resilience, with Hunter surging late in the second half to overcome a narrow halftime deficit. Despite trailing 30-29 at the break, the Hawks outscored their opponents 36-33 in the final frame to clinch the win.

Hunter struggled to find their rhythm early, shooting 37.5% from the floor in the opening half. Enzo Caceres-Roussel led the charge with timely three-pointers, finishing the half with 10 points, including two from beyond the arc. Jayden Jarret anchored the defense and contributed offensively, pulling down 10 rebounds by halftime to go along with his six points. Casey Meyers added a deep three late in the half to keep Hunter within striking distance.

The Hawks came out with a renewed energy in the second half, with Caceres-Roussel adding six points and critical assists in transition. Donovan Cola and Sal Saputo also stepped up, combining for 21 points and hitting clutch free throws down the stretch. The Hawks' defense shined in the closing minutes, forcing turnovers and converting them into fast-break points.
 

Enzo Caceres-Roussel led all scorers for the Hawks with 16 points, adding five assists and three rebounds, including three clutch three-pointers. Jarret recorded a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds, while Donovan Cola chipped in 12 points and five rebounds, providing steady scoring throughout. Although Hunter shot 61.5% from the free-throw line, an area they will look to improve upon, their resilience and defensive effort were enough to secure the win in a tightly contested game. 

The Hawks break for the holidays but resume their season on Dec. 29 as they travel to Willimantic, CT for the Eastern Holiday Invitational, where Hunter will compete against St. Mary's of Maryland at 5:00 p.m.