Buffalo State led by 12 points late in the opening half, but the Hawks closed the frame with a 7-0 run, ending the period trailing, 36-31. The Bengals pulled away early in the second half, reestablishing a 12-point lead, but the Hawks battled back again, closing the deficit to a single point in the waning moments. Buffalo State never relinquished the lead, however, and held on for the victory.
Gregg Jones (Syracuse/Nottingham) led Buffalo State with a game-high 20 points. Dion Mozelle (Rego Park/Xaverian) and Dante Griggs (Bronx/Chester Academy) each added double-doubles for Buffalo State. Mozelle scored 14 points and grabbed 15 rebounds, and Griggs had 14 points and 11 boards.
Bobby Kaible (Saugerties/Saugerties) led New Paltz with 17 points. John Hauser (East Williston/Chaminade) added 11 points, seven rebounds and five assists.
Buffalo State will host conference-rival Oswego on Tuesday night at 8 p.m.