NEW YORK – Despite a valiant effort led by standout performances from Alexa Charles and Gianna Henriques, top-seeded Hunter College fell 59-54 to Brooklyn College in the CUNYAC Championship on Thursday night at the Sportsplex.

The Hawks (20-6, 13-1 CUNYAC), who entered the tournament as regular-season champions, struggled to find their rhythm early but fought back throughout the contest. Charles, the CUNYAC Co-Player of the Year, delivered a dominant performance with 18 points and 20 rebounds, while Henriques contributed 10 points, six rebounds, and two blocks. Both players were named to the All-Tournament Team for their efforts.

Hunter faced early adversity, trailing 16-9 after the first quarter as Brooklyn capitalized on a strong shooting start. The Hawks responded in the second quarter behind Charles' inside presence and Katie Burke's perimeter shooting. Burke knocked down four three-pointers on the night, including a key triple early in the second that cut into the deficit.

Momentum shifted in the second quarter when Hunter's defense tightened, forcing multiple turnovers. Henriques scored inside, and Makkedah Murray's seven points off the bench helped the Hawks outscore Brooklyn 17-11 in the period, tying the game at 27 at halftime.

The third quarter saw back-and-forth action, with neither team gaining a decisive edge. Hunter took its first lead at 38-36 after Burke's three-pointer with just over two minutes left in the period. However, Brooklyn responded with a late surge to take a 43-38 advantage into the final frame.

In the fourth quarter, Charles and Henriques led a final push, with Charles scoring inside and Henriques converting a crucial layup to bring Hunter within a possession. Murray added late free throws to keep the Hawks within striking distance, but key turnovers and missed opportunities allowed Brooklyn to maintain its edge down the stretch.

Hunter's defense held Brooklyn to just 28.8% shooting from the field, and 9.4% from three, but second-chance points proved costly as Brooklyn capitalized on offensive rebounds. Despite the loss, the Hawks' stellar season was highlighted by Charles' individual honors, as well as head coach John Garrett earning CUNYAC Coach of the Year recognition. Erin Cosio, named a CUNYAC Second Team All-Star, also contributed defensively in the championship bout.

The Hawks now turn their focus to potential postseason opportunities, awaiting ECAC selections.