The Baruch College Bearcats defeated the Bloodhounds of John Jay College of Criminal Justice, 67-58, in the quarterfinal round of the CUNYAC Championship Tournament on Sunday afternoon in the ARC Arena.

After a quick 14-2 start by the Bearcats, the visiting Bloodhounds battled back and took the lead at the halfway point of the first half. Neither team was able to secure a significant lead, with both squads going back-and-forth well into the closing minutes of the first half.

Down one (55-54) with six minutes left, the Bearcats were able to finish with a 13-3 run that would force the Bloodhounds to foul to get the ball back in the game. The Bearcats iced the game at the free throw by connecting on all four attempts in the final minute to advance to their third straight CUNYAC semifinal.

Jack Sixsmith and Chimaechi Ekekeugbor led the way for the Bearcats with 16 points apiece. Sixsmith nailed two 3-pointers and led all players with five assists.

Bryler Paige also came up big with 15 points, which included a key three for the lead at 57-55.

 "I'm proud of the way we handled adversity today from a very good and well coached John Jay team," said Head Coach John Alesi, who earned his 100th career win this afternoon. "At this time of year you have to be able to win ugly and that's what we did this afternoon. We look forward to playing Wednesday night against Staten Island, who has had an incredible season. I'm confident we will be ready to play."

John Jay was led by Doug Levy with 20 points and 19 rebounds, to go along with three blocks. MiKing Richardson contributed 17 points and four assists.

With the win, the Bearcats advance to face Staten Island in the semifinal round on Wednesday, February 22, at 6 p.m., at CCNY's Nat Holman Gymnasium.

Tickets are free, but fans must register in advance at CUNYAthletics.com.