Release courtesy of Pratt Athletics

HYDE PARK, NY – Vishal Vanka hit a game-winning free throw with 10 seconds remaining, as the Pratt Cannoneers snapped their five-game losing streak with a 62-61 win over the Steels of Culinary Institute on Sunday afternoon in Hyde Park.

With the victory, Pratt improves their record to 5-11 (1-3 HVIAC), while the Steels drop to 4-7 (1-4 HVIAC).

Using an aggressive defensive game plan, the Cannoneers would force 21 Culinary turnovers – leading to 19 points – while limiting their own miscues to a season-low 11 turnovers. On the glass, Pratt would grab a season-best 20 offensive rebounds, resulting in 12 second chance points.

Down 61-60 with less than a minute to play, Akil Philip's free throw would tie the game with 20 seconds remaining. Philip's second attempt would miss the mark, but the junior was able to corral the offensive rebound. After a Vanka free throw gave the Cannoneers the lead, 62-61, Culinary was in position to win on the game's final possession. However, Philip picked the pocket of Brandon Medley, and Pratt escaped with a crucial conference victory.

For the game, Akil Philip would score 17 points and grab a career-best 20 rebounds, while Vishal Vanka's 18 points tied his season-high.

CIA's Aaron Ruzinsky led all scorers with 34 points.

UP NEXT – The Cannoneers resume their conference schedule as they welcome the Blue Angels of new Rochelle to the ARC on Sunday, January 28. Game time is scheduled for 1:00 pm.