(Crookston, Minn.)- Upper Iowa University raced out to a 23 point halftime lead and went on to defeat the University of Minnesota, Crookston 71-52 tonight in Northern Sun Intercollegiate (NSIC) Men's Basketball action at Lysaker Gymnasium.

The Peacocks shot 52% (13-for-25) in the first half compared to U of M, Crookston's 26.9% (7-for-26) to take a 38-15 lead into the locker room. The Golden Eagles came out firing in the second half shooting 60.9% (14-for-23) and outscoring the University of Upper Iowa by a 37-33 clip. However it was not enough as the Peacocks held on for the 19 point victory.

The University of Upper Iowa was led by Keith Steffeck who scored 13 points (5-for-8). Alex Kramer added 11 points (3-for-4) while Matt Lesan chipped in ten (4-for-9).

U of M, Crookston was led by Matthew Heier (Sr, G, Ray, N.D.) who scored 16 points (5-for-9). Darin Weeks (Jr, G/F, Green River, Wyo.) added nine points (4-for-9) and 11 rebounds while Adam Hendricks (Jr, F, Watertown, Minn.) added nine points (4-for-9) as well.

The Peacocks improve to 8-10 overall and 5-6 in the NSIC. The Golden Eagles fall to 3-13 overall and 0-10 in the NSIC.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston Men's Basketball team returns to NSIC action on Saturday, January 23 when they host Winona State University. Tip-off is set for 6 p.m. at Lysaker Gymnasium.

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 (Left to Right) - Matthew Heier, Darin Weeks, Adam Hendricks