BUFFALO, NY - The Villa Maria College Vikings couldn't overcome poor free throw shooting and a slow start but still nearly pulled off a second half comeback, but fell short, dropping the Cole's Classic Title Game to the host school, Buffalo State College 94-83 on Saturday evening at the Buffalo State Sports Arena.

The Bengals (3-0) made it two wins in as many years against Villa (3-4), after taking down the Vikings 100-91 in the opening round of the Cole's Classic in 2015.  Villa sophomore DeJaun Owens (Buffalo, NY/Tapestry) led Villa with 18 points as four different players scored in double-figures.

Buffalo State raced out to a 13-2 lead and never trailed.  They were led offensively by senior Lovell Smith, who scored a career-high 35 points.

A full recap and stats will be made available shortly.