Utica, N.Y.--Led by a career-high 24 points from sophomore Chris Cruz (West Genesee/Camillus), Ithaca (17-1, 8-1 Empire 8) defeated Utica (5-4, 10-7) 86-73 Saturday evening. The Bombers extended their winning streak to five games.

Ithaca saw its lead, which had been as many as 14 points, cut to just five with three minutes remaining of the game. The Pioneers capped a 17-8 run with a three-point basket that brought the score to 69-64. With Utica forced to foul, Ithaca took 16 free throws in the game's final minutes. The Bombers made 15 of their shots from the foul line, extending their lead and securing the road victory.

Senior Sean Burton (Yorkville/Notre Dame) was perfect from the line in the game, making all nine of his free throws. He scored 20 points, and also distributed nine assists. As a team, Ithaca shot better than 91% (21-of-23) free the free throw line.

The Bombers took control of the game early, taking the lead for good with 11 unanswered points shortly into the first half. Cruz hit back-to-back three-pointers in the 11-0 run. He made six in the game, shooting 60% (6-of-10) from beyond the arc. He also grabbed six rebounds, one short of his career-high.

Senior Sean Leahy (West Genesee/Syracuse) picked up his fourth-career double-double with 11 points and a career-high 12 rebounds. He has three double-doubles this season, including one at home against the Pioneers. Junior Tom Brown (Bayport-Blue Point/Bayport) also reached double figures in points. He chipped in 10 points in his first start of the season.

Sophomore Phil Barera (Belmont/Belmont, Mass.) contributed eight points and five rebounds off the bench.

Ithaca continues Empire 8 play Tuesday at No. 21 St. John Fisher.

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