Liam Sanborn scored 25 points and Jehmehl Fair had 18 points as the Baruch College Bearcats defeated Farmingdale State College, 78-75, in the first round of the Rose City Classic on Friday night at Drew University in Madison, New Jersey.

The Bearcats advance on Saturday to play weekend host Drew University in the Championship at 4:00 p.m. in Baldwin Gym.

The Bearcats shot a torrid 58 percent (15-for-26) in the first half to build a 44-37 halftime lead.

They continued to lead in the second half until Farmingdale State rallied with a 13-3 run overturning a 63-55 deficit with 9:26 remaining into a a 68-66 lead with 3:44 left.

The Bearcats quickly responded with a three by Fair, a jumper and a layup by Sanborn, and a pair of free throws by Michael Richards to go back up again 75-68 with 41 seconds remaining

Farmingdale threatened in the waning seconds and managed to get as close as 76-75 with seven seconds left. Fair was fouled with six seconds and hit both free throws to make it 78-75.

Richards stole the ball during Farmingdale's attempt to tie to help seal the victory.

Jevon Santos led Farmingdale, who will play Saint Elizabeth in the consolation game at 2:00 p.m., with 15 points.