INDIANA, Pa. – Freshman Kymani Merraro's game-winning triple as time expired, secured IUP's 59-56 win over Seton Hill Saturday afternoon inside the KCAC.

With this win IUP returns to the winning column with a 9-8 overall record and 5-5 in the PSAC. Seton Hill dropped to 10-8 overall and 3-7 in the conference. 

Merraro led the Hawks with 15 points, made three three-pointers, and two steals. Merraro scored the Hawks final seven points. Ian Herring recorded a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds, while also contributing four blocks and three steals on the defensive end.

IUP shot .367 from the field and .263 beyond the arc compared to Seton Hill who shot .315 from the field and .273 beyond the arc. 

Seton Hill held the lead through much of the first nine minutes until a layup by Herring put IUP ahead 10-9. Sarp Furton knocked down a three-pointer at the 5:59 mark to regain the lead for the Hawks at 19-17. IUP extended the lead with a basket by Herring and a three-pointer by Christian Moore, going up 24-17. Merraro added a jumper in the final minute, and a basket by Herring helped IUP close out the half with a 28-22 advantage.

Damir Brooks opened the second half with a dunk. Merraro made a three pointer at 14:57, followed by a layup from Luke Triggs to distance the Hawks by three points. IUP went on a six-point run before Seton Hill rallied to pull within three, 48-45, with 7:56 left. A free throw by Seton Hill at the 1:14 mark tied the game at 54.

Merraro scored back-to-back baskets to push IUP ahead, but Seton Hill responded to tie the game again with 18 seconds remaining. With the clock winding down, Merraro shook off a defender and drilled a buzzer-beating three-pointer to secure the victory for the Crimson Hawks.

Up Next 
IUP travels to Slippery Rock on Wednesday, January 22, tipoff is set for 7:30 p.m. inside Morrow Field House.

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