The Baruch College Bearcats defeated the Cougars of Medgar Evers College, 86-77, in a CUNYAC road contest played on Friday night in Brooklyn, New York.

The visiting Bearcats shot 58 percent (15-for-26) in the second half to lead on three different occasions by as much as 14 points, but the Cougars rallied very late in the game to cut the score to 79-75 with 31 seconds left.

The Bearcats (10-6, 6-2 CUNYAC) never lost their composure and connected on 7-of-8 free throws in the final 30 seconds to seal the victory that keeps them in third place in the CUNYAC standings.

Granville Gittenshad an outstanding game off the bench with 20 points (6-9 fg, 8-8 ft), eight rebounds and two blocked shots.

Raymond De La Cruzwas busy again with a near double-double of 14 points and nine rebounds, while Rob Goldsteincame off the bench to score 13 points and two steals. Fuat Yaparwas the final player in double-figure scoring with 12 points.

The bench was a factor again in the victory with 42 total points compared to 17 by the Cougars (7-10, 3-5 CUNYAC).

Michael Taylor led the Cougars with 28 points (10-10 ft), three assists and two steals.

Baruch will return to action on Wednesday, January 23, with a 7:30 pm CUNYAC home contest against rival Hunter College.