ALBANY - Wow did Siena escape with this one.

Rakeem Brookins, who shot just 2-for-16 made a big 3-pointer with 1:36 remaining to give the Saints the lead for good.

Siena (6-5, 9-12) still had to hang on after a couple of missed free throws opened the door for Niagara (1-10, 4-19).

Anthony Nelson missed a driving layup with the clock running down and the Saints prevailed.

O.D. Anosike had a huge game for Siena, scoring 15 points and grabbing a game-high 16 rebounds.

Kashief Edwards and Marvin Jordan both scored 18 points for the Purple Eagles.

The Saints are now just one game behind a three-way tie for third place in the MAAC standings.