(Crookston, Minn.)- The University of Minnesota, Crookston Men's Basketball team returns to Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) action on Saturday, January 2 and Sunday, January 3 when they play host to Minnesota State University, Mankato and Southwest Minnesota State University respectively. Both games tip-off at 6 p.m. at Lysaker Gymasium.

The Golden Eagles have an overall record of 3-7 and NSIC record of 0-4. They were scheduled to travel to Finlandia University on Tuesday, December 29. However, that game was postponed due to inclement weather.

U of M, Crookston is led by Damarius Cruz (Fr, G, Plymouth, Minn.) who is averaging 18.8 points per game (68-for-151).

Golden Eagles vs. Minnesota State University, Mankato Saturday, January 2  6 p.m.

The Mavericks hold an overall record of 10-0 and NSIC record of 3-0. They are ranked eighth in the latest National Basketball Coaches Association (NBCA) poll after defeating Cardinal Stritch University 86-81 in non-conference action on December 18. They are led by Jefferson Mason who is averaging 16 points (56-for-86) and 9.7 rebounds per game. Travis Nelson is averaging 15.9 points (62-for-113) and 6.5 rebounds per game.

Golden Eagles vs. Southwest Minnesota State University Sunday, January 3  6 p.m.

The Mustangs have an overall record of 7-2 and NSIC record of 2-1. They have won three straight games including an 82-66 non-conference victory over the University of Minnesota Morris on December 17. Southwest Minnesota State University is led by Scott Roehl who is averaging 14.8 points (39-for-78) and 7.7 rebounds per game. Jordan Miller is averaging 13 points per game (37-for-78).

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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