The Aurora University men's basketball team had a final tune up before the official start to the 2014-2015 season when they traveled to Northern Illinois University in an exhibition contest. NIU defeated AU 86-56.

The Spartans hung with the Huskies early in the first half, trailing by six (20-14) at the 10 minute mark. NIU finished the half on a 22-11 run to lead by 17 at 42-25.

Spartan Head Coach James Lancaster rotated by players in an out in the second half before falling by the eventual 86-56 score.

AU senior Kyle Pilmer finished with 15 points with fellow senior Brandon Smith adding eight.

AU opens the 2014-2015 season on Tuesday, November 18 when they host Millikin University. Game time is set for 7:00 p.m. in Thornton Gymnasium in Aurora, Illinois.