BOSTON, Mass. - The Western New England College men's basketball team came through with solid 71-67 victory at Emmanuel College Thursday evening (Jan. 25) at the Yawkey Center to remain in first place in the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC).

Junior forward Jim Bayne (Bristol, CT) led the Golden Bears with 17 points and six rebounds while junior guard Ryan Hernandez (Hampton Bays, NY) added 15 points.

Sophomore forward Kyle Fredette (Wallingford, VT) contributed 10 points and eight boards.

Western New England College led 31-23 at half-time and held off Emmanuel down the stretch.

This was the Golden Bears' third straight victory and second four-point win over the Saints this season following a 61-57 decision in Springfield on December 9.

Coach Mike Theulen's team is now 11-7 overall and 8-2 in the conference.