Harvard's freshman basketball squad used a spectacular second half yesterday, in which they scored 52 points, to whip the formerly unbeaten cagers of Tufts, 88-68. The victory extended the Crimson's own undefeated streak to seven games this season.

In what coach Mike Jarvis termed "the most important game of the year so far," the Harvard squad was bolstered by excellent performances from center Brian Banks, who pumped in a game-high 31 points, and substitute guard Dave Rogers, who came off the bench to score 14 points and ignite the attack.

Harvard raced to an early 23-11 lead, only to see the determined Tufts cagers battle back to know the score at 30-30. Six quick points in the last minute, however, sent the Crimson to the dressing room with a 36-30 lead, after the first half marred by 34 turnovers and numerous fouls by the two teams.

Banks, who managed only 11 points in the first 20 minutes, took over the second half, dominating the game with his scoring, rebounding, and blocked shots. Aside from his point output, he also swept the boards for 28 rebounds and handed out six assists.

With Banks, Rogers, and forward Todd Hooks leading the way, Harvard shot to a 68-50 lead midway through the half, then coasted home with substitutes for the victory. Hooks finished the game with 10 points and as many rebounds.

Coach Jarvis called it "an impressive win, especially since we had been idle so long." The freshmen now move on to face Northeastern Saturday night at the IAB.