Bronx, NY - On Saturday afternoon, the Caimans of Hostos again displayed their ability to defend, especially on the road, as they topped their rival #7 Bronx CC by a final score of 74-66.  The Caimans, now winners of 6 straight games, have also won the last 5 straight games on the road.  Yet, none was more intense and passion filled then this contest against the #7^th team in the country, Bronx CC.  As rivalry games go, this was no different; a feeling out, punch by punch fight that turned in favor of the residents of the South Bronx, Hostos CC!
 
The game started slow with both teams feeling each out.  Playing tremendous defense the score was only 4-2 for the first 9 minutes of the game.  Then, methodically, Hostos began to pull away by creating offensive opportunities through turnovers, offensive rebounds, and making free throws (80%). Within this period what was a 2 point lead for Hostos ballooned all the way to 19 points as they led 32-13.  Hostos went into halftime leading 34-17.  Hostos' scoring for the half was balanced as Maverick Hodge had 8 points, Chad Coachman had 7, Rishawd Hendricks and Jeremiah Brown chipped in each with 6 points, while Antione Slaughter had 5 and Tyree White had 4 points. 
 
The second half started off much different than the first half as Derrick Fernandez from Bronx hit a 3 point shot to immediately bring the Broncos to within 14 points.  Yet, even with Fernandez's 19 second half points along with 17 from Ron Washington in the half, the Broncos were never able to significantly cut the deficit.  The Caimans kept the lead between 9-13 points for the majority of the half thru continued excellence at the free throw line shooting 77% in the half, as well as, making key baskets off of press breaks and their set offense.  Corey Staley came off the bench to assist the Caimans with 9 points in the half and help stabilize any possible threats.  This came along with the play of Brown and his 15 points, as well as Hendricks 12 points for the evening that helped cap the victory for Hostos. 
 
Round 2 between Bronx and Hostos will take place on February 12 at 7pm at Hostos.  For now, the Caimans return to the friendly confines of the Swamp for the remaining 5 games of the Fall Semester.  The home stand begins with another CUNYAC Conference and NJCAA Region 15 opponent, BMCC, on Tuesday at 8pm.  Come early, as another sellout crowd is expected, especially with the red hot Lady Caimans, winners of their last 3 games, playing before the men at 6pm.