HARTFORD, Conn. -- Justin Sears scored a game-high 16 points and grabbed 10 rebounds as Yale defeated Hartford 54-49 Saturday.

It was Sears play on defense in the closing minutes which helped seal the win for Yale (4-3). With 1:43 remaining, Sears blocked Evan Cooper's layup, which would have given Hartford a 3-point lead. Javier Duren grabbed the rebound, passed to Nick Victor, who nailed a jumper to put the Bulldogs ahead 47-46. Yale led the rest of the way.

Hartford's Wes Cole hit a 3-pointer with 29 seconds to play to bring the Hawks within one point. Javier Duren made two free throws for Yale before Sears blocked his fourth shot, Yolonzo Moore II's layup with 12 seconds remaining.

Hartford (2-6) was led by Mark Nwakamma, who had 15 points and nine rebounds. Cole scored 12 points, all on 3-pointers.