OLD WESTBURY, N.Y. (Nov. 16, 2010) – Lead by junior Cierra Baker’s (Windsor, Conn.) game-high 13 points and 15 rebounds, NYIT women’s basketball defeated Post University 62-55 Tuesday night in the team’s home opener at Recreation Hall.

 

“Our defensive intensity in the second half was the difference,” said head coach Anthony Crocitto. “And, our bench play was outstanding. This was a good team win for us.”

 

The Bears (1-1) held a slight shooting edge, 41.4% to 35.1%, and rebounding edge, 43 to 39, over the Eagles (0-3). However, it was a come-from-behind victory for NYIT, who trailed 33-35 in the first half.

 

Senior Alexis Tyson (North Babylon, N.Y.) and junior Denise Crawford (Roosevelt, N.Y.) added 10 points each for the Bears, while Crawford had four steals and rookie Demitra Apergis (Littleton, Colo.) dished out five assists.

 

For the Eagles, Casey Brooks had 10 points and Elizabeth Johnson pulled down eight rebounds.

 

NYIT trailed for the first 10 minutes of the contest before earning a one-point advantage on a jumper from Tyson, 17-16. NYIT then went on to claim a five-point edge with baskets from sophomore Rebecca Lynch (Hillsdale, N.J.) and Crawford, 21-16. However, Post fought back to regain control of the game and held onto the lead into halftime.

 

Out of the break, NYIT was fired up and took control quickly. The Bears claimed their largest lead of the game, 60-47, with less than five minutes left to play. Although NYIT struggled from the free throw line (9-22), its defense held firm for the win.

 

The Bears return to action on Saturday, Nov. 20 on the road at Concordia College. Tip-off is slated for 1 p.m. in Bronxville, N.Y.