New York, N.Y.- The Hunter College mens' basketball team defeated no. 5 Brooklyn College in the opening round of the City University of New York Athletic Conference postseason tournament, 61-58. With the win, the Hawks advance to the semifinals round on Feb. 21, where they will face off top-seeded Baruch College. 

The Hawks quickly established a lead in the start of play, jumping out to a 14-4 edge within the first five minutes, including six points from Casey Meyers. Hunter continued to hold that lead, going up by as much as 19 with less than four minutes to go. Brooklyn was able to cut Hunter's lead to ten by the end of the half, as the two teams went into the intermission with the Hawks up 33-23.

The Bulldogs entered the second half of play hot, outscoring Hunter 2-13 the take a one point lead at 15:19. The Purple and Gold called a quick time out, adjusting from there to reestablish its lead. The game saw one last tie at 46-46 with just over eight minutes left in play. Despite outscoring the Hawks 35-28 in the second half, Hunter's first half dominance coupled with a relentless offense at the close out the half led the Hawks to a three point win to eliminate the Bulldogs and continue in the tournament. 

Kareem McDonald led all scorers with 21 points on the night in addition to eight assists, seven rebounds and three steals while also adding a block. Jack Meyers also netted double-digit points with 18 to go along with his five rebounds and duo of steals. Luka Jakic led the Hawks in boards with nine rebounds. 

Overall the Hawks shot 43.6% overall (31.6% #PT,  50.0% FT), while the Bulldogs were held to 39.7%  overall and 8.2% from beyond the arc, but matched Hunter at  50.0% from the line. 

No. 4 Hunter continues its postseason run against no. 1 Baruch on Feb. 21.