ST. PAUL – Trailing by as many as 24 late in the first half, the University of Northwestern men's basketball team stormed back against visiting Crown College (5-5, 1-1 UMAC) Wednesday night, but came up just short, falling by a final score of 79-75 inside the Ericksen Center. The Eagles drop to 2-6 overall and 1-2 in league play.

After UNW jumped out to an early 7-0 advantage, Crown put together a 33-5 run midway through the first half and took a 48-26 lead into the locker room. It was the Eagles' turn in the second half, as UNW put together a furious second-half rally, outscoring Crown 49-31 in the second frame before coming up just short.

Caleb Hageman (Charles City, Iowa/Charles City) had the hot hand for UNW, as the junior finished with 19 points to go along with six boards and two assists. Isaiah Rahier (Northome, Minn./Northome) also put together a strong outing, netting 17 points, while Tanner Youngberg (Pocahontas, Iowa/Pocahontas Area) secured a double-double with his 10 points and 12 rebounds. Youngberg also added four helpers.

UNW shot 36.4 percent from the floor and struggled from long range, hitting just 3-of-16 3-point attempts. The Eagles took care of the ball, committing just seven turnovers, while forcing 15 Storm turnovers.

The Eagles will continue their homestand Saturday when No. 8 UW-River Falls visits the Ericksen Center. Tip-off is slated for 3 p.m. Fans can find more information at unweagles.com or by following @unwmbb on Twitter.