REDLANDS (12-1)- Host Redlands used a 12-6 run near the end of the first half to take the lead and then held off UC Santa Cruz the rest of the way in a nervy 80-74 victory at the Lee Fulmer Classic.

UCSC fell to 3-3 while Redlands went to 1-3.

The Banana Slugs lead by as much as six at 19-13 and led 22-20 before Redlands had their run to take a 32-28 lead. After the Slugs got within 1 point on Patrick Ramos's layup,  Redlands finished the half on a 5-0 run for a 41-35 lead at the break.

The Bulldogs never trailed again, but Redlands spent the second half holding off the determined Banana Slugs. UCSC got within 2 twice, the second time with under six minutes left when Corey Cilia got a steal and took it to the hoop for a layup that made it 65-63. Redlands answered with three fouls shots on the next possession t push the lead back to five. 

After UCSC cut it to three at 77-74 with under 0:20 left, the Slugs were forced to foul. Redlands missed the two free throws but UCSC couldn't handle the rebound. Redlands finished the game hitting 3-4 free throws for the final margin.

Ciia led the Slugs with 20 points off the bench. Will Crain added 10 points and a season-high six blocks.

UC Santa Cruz plays Caltech tomorrow to close the Lee Fulmer Classic