(Crookston, Minn.)- Minnesota State University, Mankato raced out to a 30 point halftime lead (53-23) and never looked back as the Mavericks defeated the University of Minnesota, Crookston 105-55 Friday night in Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) Men's Basketball action in Mankato, Minn.

Minnesota State University, Mankato, ranked fourth in the latest National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) poll, had seven players reach double figures and used a 23-2 run in the first half to put the game out of reach. The Mavericks were led by Travis Nelson (7-for-9) and Jefferson Mason (4-for-4) who each scored 16 points. Mason was also 8-for-9 from the free throw line and dished out four assists.

The Golden Eagles were led by Matthew Heier (Sr, G, Ray, N.D.) who scored 15 points (5-for-11) and pulled down four rebounds. Adam Hendricks (Jr, F, Watertown, Minn.) added ten points (5-for-12).

Minnesota State University, Mankato improves to 20-1 overall and 13-1 in the NSIC. The University of Minnesota, Crookston falls to 3-17 overall and 0-14 in the NSIC.

The Golden Eagles return to NSIC action on Saturday, February 6 when they face Southwest Minnesota State University in Marshall, Minn. Tip-off is set for 8 p.m.

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-Right) - Matthew Heier, Adam Hendricks