(Crookston, Minn.)- The University of Minnesota, Crookston took a 31-26 halftime lead and held on for an exciting 80-73 non-conference victory over Northern State University today at the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) Holiday Hoopsfest in Sioux Falls, S.D. It was the first victory for the Golden Eagles over the Wolves.

U of , Crookston, who trailed by seven with six minutes to go in the first half, went on a 13-1 run to end the half and never trailed again. The Golden Eagles led by as many as 18 points in the second half. However, Northern State University would not go away getting 21 points from their bench players before U of M, Crookston secured the victory.

The Wolves were led by Mitch Boeck who scored a game high 28 points. Derek Hoellein added 14 points for Northern State University.

Akeem Cubie (Jr, G, Minneapolis, Minn.), Damarius Cruz (Fr, G, Plymouth, Minn.) and Matthew Heier (Sr, G, Ray, N.D.) all continued their stellar play. Cubie led the Golden Eagles with 20 points, 11 rebounds and four steals. Cruz added 19 points, four rebounds and three steals. Heier scored 16 points with three rebounds and three assists. Adam Hendricks (Jr, F, Watertown, Minn.) also played a solid game scoring 12 points and pulling down three rebounds to give U of M, Crookston four players in double figures.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston improves to 3-1 on the season. Northern State University falls to 3-2.

The Golden Eagles open NSIC play on Friday, December 4 and Saturday, December 5 when they travel to the University of Minnesota Duluth and Bemidji State University respectively. Tip-off will take place at 8 p.m. both nights.

For more information, visit the Golden Eagle Athletics Web site at http://www.goldeneaglesports.com/.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston is a NCAA Division II Institution and a member of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). The Golden Eagle Equestrian team is a member of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA).

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Photo Caption: Matthew Heier (Left), Adam Hendricks (Right)