MORRIS, Minn. - After trailing from the opening tip, the University of Minnesota Morris men's basketball team stared at a devastating 13 point deficit at the final buzzer in their matchup against North Central University. 

The Rams jumped out to an early lead, but Pal Dak brought the game to within two and Dom Aguilar tied things up at 6-6 with a finish in the paint. From there, it was a game of chase for the Cougars as they sought to take control of the scoring. After an intense first half, Minnesota Morris trailed by just six points. North Central came out of halftime looking to put the game away. The Cougars held on, keeping the Rams within striking range until the last 10 minutes of the game. In the end, Minnesota Morris trailed 66-79 at the final buzzer. 

Dak led the Cougars in scoring with 17 points, while Aguilar cashed in 16 points of his own. Carvin Fish dropped 12 for Minnesota Morris in the paint.

Men's basketball look to stay in playoff contention as they head to Martin Luther College Feb. 15 for a 1:00 PM tip-off.