June 23, 2008

Bismarck, ND - University of Mary men’s basketball coach Juno Pintar today announced that Ben Cruickshank of Firth, NE, will continue his college education at U-Mary and play basketball for the Marauders.

"Ben brings depth and maturity to our front line," said Pintar. "He is a space eater inside and has a very nice skill set on the offensive end of the court. Ben is a great young man who has a personality that will fit in well with our guys."

Cruickshank is a 6-foot-8, 255-pound center transferring to U-Mary from Southeast Community College in Beatrice, NE. The leading rebounder for the Storm as a sophomore in 2007-08, Cruickshank averaged 6.8 boards and 3.7 points per game. SCC finished 19-14 last season, improving from a 12-20 record his freshman season.

An all-state and all-conference player at Norris High School in Firth, NE, who led his team to a district title as a senior, Cruickshank also earned most valuable player honors in the Southeast All-Star game. He played basketball and football for four seasons, track three years and golf for one.

The son of Steve and Mary Cruickshank, Ben plans to pursue a degree in teacher education, history and social science.

Cruickshank will have two years of collegiate eligibility available and will start his junior year this fall.