ST. PAUL, Minn. – The University of Minnesota Morris men's basketball team was eliminated from postseason contention on Friday night with a 78-68 loss at the University of Northwestern. The defeat puts the Cougars at 12-12 (6-7 UMAC) on the season.

In the opening two minutes of the game, Brian LaRoche, Jr. tied the game at 2-2 and Gus Gunderson gave Minnesota Morris its lone lead on a three-pointer to make it 5-4. Northwestern came right back with a 10-0 run to go on top, 14-5. Though the Cougars would keep things close and get within three late in the half, UNW went to the break with a 29-23 advantage.

The story was much the same in the second half. Though Minnesota Morris was never out of it, Northwestern simply had the answer every time the Cougars mounted a challenge. A Kenny Placide layup once again had UMN Morris within three, 32-29, but the Eagles scored six straight to open up another cushion.

In the final minute, a three-point play from Pal Dak made it 71-66. Utilizing a full-court press, Minnesota Morris nearly forced the turnover but a fortunate pass resulted in an easy layup for Northwestern to help close things out.

Four Cougars finished in double-figures on the night, led by 19 from Dak. LaRoche, Jr. netted 15, while Placide and Gunderson each added 10. 

Minnesota Morris closes out the regular season tomorrow afternoon with a 4:45 p.m. contest at North Central University.