NEW YORK, N.Y. — JP Maaba scored 18 points and led a late charge, but the Hunter College men's basketball team came up short in its CUNYAC opener, falling 70–59 to Baruch on Thursday night at the Hunter Sportsplex.

In a game that saw seven ties and six lead changes, the Hawks (2–7, 0–1 CUNYAC) battled neck-and-neck through the first half, trailing just 31–28 at the break. Maaba kept the offense afloat with clutch shots down the stretch, finishing 7-of-15 from the floor, including 2-of-6 from deep, and a perfect 2-for-2 at the line.

Jeremiah Otasowie added 14 points, six rebounds, and five assists, showcasing his versatility on both ends. Georgios Gatsias came off the bench to chip in 13 points, hitting a pair of second-half threes and going 5-for-6 from the stripe. Jayden Jarrett added eight points, six rebounds, and four assists in another strong two-way performance.

Despite shooting nearly 40 percent from the field, the Hawks struggled to contain Baruch's second-half run, where the Bearcats (3–5, 1–0 CUNYAC) shot nearly 58 percent and outscored Hunter 39–31 after the break. The visitors also held a slight 38–37 edge on the boards and converted 16 points off Hunter's 14 turnovers.

Hunter returns to action on Wednesday, Dec. 9, when it travels to face USMMA. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m.