The Eagle’s men’s team made history Saturday by winning the Association of Independent Institutions Division II regional championship, a first for Northern basketball.
The Eagles beat Ashford University 51-48 in the final game of the tournament in Clinton, Iowa, giving them an automatic berth to the national championships. The Eagles defeated Rochester College 71-61 in the semi-final round Friday.
A.J. Peralta and Matthew Brito, who was also named conference MVP, were selected to the all-conference team. Brito and Eric Garcia were named to the all-tournament team.
“This is a step in the right direction for the Eagles,” Athletics Director and Head Basketball Coach Ryan Cordova said. “This marks our first conference win, the first time making it to conference finals, the first time winning a conference championship, having two players named to the all conference team, having two players named to the all-tournament team, qualifying for a national tournament and the first time having over 14 wins in a season,” he said.
Only 32 teams from around the country will proceed to nationals, which will take place March 12-18 in Branson, MO. Brackets will be announced March 5.
For more information, Contact:
Ryan Cordova
Northern Athletics Director
(505) 747-2288
rcordova@nnmc.edu