WORCESTER, Mass. -- Billy Baron had a season-high 31 points with nine rebounds and five assists to propel Canisius past Holy Cross 83-73 Monday night.

The Griffins (7-4) were clinging to a two-point lead midway through the second half when Chris Manhertz converted a three-point play and Baron hit a 3-pointer to give some breathing room.

Holy Cross (5-5) wouldn't go away easily as Anthony Thompson and Justin Burrell each hit 3-pointers, sparking a run to pull within three after two Malachi Alexander free throws with 2:07 remaining.

Jordan Heath hit a 3-pointer that Alexander followed with two free throws, but Canisius made eight of its last 10 from the line to ice the game.

Baron drained four 3-pointers and was 13 of 13 on free throws. Heath scored 15 points and Chris Perez added 14 for the Griffins.

Dave Dudzinski paced the Crusaders with 16 points and 10 boards.