Kanacevic’s 11 points provide spark in Hofstra’s 44-39 victory over cold-shooting Manhattan

Kanacevic sparks Hofstra over Manhattan 44-39

HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. — Freshman Halil Kanacevic scored 11 points off the bench, including five in a row late in the second half, as Hofstra defeated Manhattan 44-39 on Wednesday night.

The Pride (6-3) held the Jaspers (5-4) to 21.4 percent shooting (12-for-56), including 1-for-23 in the opening 15:05, when Hofstra turned a 5-0 deficit into a 19-5 lead.

But Hofstra’s own poor shooting helped keep Manhattan in the game. The Pride made one of their last 11 first-half shots and were 6-for-16 for the game on free throws.

Manhattan pulled within 36-34 with 7:03 to play on a layup by Rico Pickett, whose 10 points tied Patrick Bouli for team honors.

Kanacevic answered with a layup with 6:42 remaining, a jumper at the 3:50 mark and 1 of 2 free throws with 2:29 left for a 41-34 lead.

Hofstra held an opponent under 40 points for the first time since it held Rider to just 34 points on Jan. 18, 1989.