SALEM, VA — Freshman forward John Hauser (East Williston, NY) had 17 points, 13 rebounds and four steals to lead SUNY New Paltz to a 69-65 win over Ferrum College in the opening round of the 11th annual V-Foundation Classic this evening.
The victory puts the Hawks in the championship game against Roanoke College at 7:00 p.m. tomorrow evening (1/8). Roanoke, the host of the tournament, advanced to the title game with a 90-72 triumph over St. Joseph’s (ME).
The Hawks, 3-3 and winnners of two in a row, fought back from an eight-point second half deficit to earn the victory. Trailing 34-26 with 17 minutes remaining, New Paltz used a 10-2 spurt to tie the score at 34, with the tying basket coming on a layup by Hauser at the 15:29 mark.
Following seven lead changes, senior forward Jayvard Smith (Hempstead, NY) hit two free throws with 4:32 remaining to give the Hawks the lead for good.
Senior center Steve Ott (New Paltz, NY) added 14 points for the Hawks. Ferrum was led by sophomore forward Chris Smith (Roanoke, VA) who had 17 points and made five three-point field goals.
