NIAGARA UN., N.Y. -- After a successful home stand, the Niagara University men’s basketball team (15-6, 10-3) returns to the road for two games, beginning with a 7:30 p.m. meeting with red-hot Iona College (10-12, 6-6) Thursday in the Mulcahy Center.

The Purple Eagles took over sole possession of first place in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference with an 81-66 victory over Siena College Monday and a Rider loss. Senior Juan Mendez led five players in double figures with a game-high 20 points.

Iona helped Niagara secure first place in the standings with a 67-66 upset of Rider on Monday. The Gaels have won five of their last six games.

The game can be heard live on the Niagara Athletic Department’s official web site at www.PurpleEagles.com.