HANCOCK, MICH. – The University of Northwestern men's basketball team (5-3, 4-0 UMAC) competed against Finlandia University (2-5) at the Paavo Nurmi Center Friday evening in Hancock, Mich. The game was won by the Eagles – who secured a 78-70 win over the home team.

Throughout the opening 20:00 of play, Northwestern used their strong offensive efforts in the first half action to go 16-32 from the floor (50.0). Though the Lions outperformed the Eagles by sinking 18-31 shots (58.1%), it was UNW who fronted a 42-40 lead heading into halftime.

Porter Morrell (Elk River, Minn./Home School) paced the team in the first 20:00 minutes of play, recording 9 points, one assist, and one steal. Teammate Caleb Hageman (Charles City, Iowa/Charles City) also had a strong showing on the half, as he was able to note eight points and one assist for the Eagles. 

Over the course of second period, Northwestern's momentum continued as they managed to outscore the Lions 36-30. Though Finlandia followed closely behind, it was UNW who came out on top – capturing a 78-70 victory on the night's competition.

Northwestern shot 42.6% from the field, while Finlandia finished the match by shooting 50.0% from the floor. The squad also concluded with 43 rebounds (16 OFF & 27 DEF), 13 assists, four steals, and two blocks.

The game leaders on the match were Will Gisler (Stewartville, Minn./Stewartville) (15pts, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal), Morrell (15pts, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal), Anderson Bazile Jr. (Houston, Tex./San Antonio Reagan) (10pts, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal), and Aaron Youngberg (Pocahontas, Iowa/Pocahontas Area) (10pts, 7 rebounds).

The purple and gold will be back in action tomorrow in Ashland, Wis., to compete against Northland College. The game will get underway at 5 p.m. Fans can find more information on the men's basketball team by following @unwmbb on Twitter and by visiting www.unweagles.com.