Veronica Ganziscored a career-high 35 points, including 10 points in the final 1:56, to lift the Baruch College Bearcats to a 76-71 CUNYAC home victory over the Hawks of Hunter College on Saturday afternoon in the ARC Arena.
The Bearcats on Alumni Day controlled the first half and led by as much as 12 points, but in the second half the visiting Hawks came out strong to lead 62-59 with 2:13 remaining.
Ganzi took control by hitting a three to tie it at 62 and connected on another basket a minute later to tie it again at 64, as the teams exchanged basket in the frenetic final two minutes.
Theresa Leung would then hit one of two free throws to give the Hawks the lead again, 65-64, but Ganzi nailed her fifth three-pointer of the game to hand the Bearcats back the lead of 67-65.
Ganzi would later hit two more free throws and Shannon Barrettsealed the win with two free throws with two seconds left for the important home victory.
Barrett, who drew two pivotal offensive charges against the Hawks, finished with a double-double of 14 points, 12 rebounds and three assists.
Daniela Arias, who broke up numerous fast break opportunities by the Hawks, scored 12 points and six assists.
Demetra Papadopouloscame off the bench to score four points.
Jade Aponte led the visitors with 19 points (15 in first half).
The Bearcats will continue their home stand on Wednesday, January 18, with a 5:30 p.m. CUNYAC home contest in the ARC Arena against the Cardinals of York College.