The UNI men’s basketball team clinched a hard-fought victory against Belmont, emerging triumphant with a final score of 76-70. This win marks the Panthers’ impressive 3-0 start in the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) play, showcasing their dominance on the court at the McLeod Center in Cedar Falls on Wednesday night.
Panthers’ Stellar Performance
Northern Iowa demonstrated their prowess by maintaining a 45.3% shooting accuracy from the field throughout the game. With four starters achieving double-digit scores, the team secured its first 3-0 conference start since the 2009-10 season. Head coach Ben Jacobson also reached a significant milestone, coaching his 600th career game with the Panthers, a testament to his dedication and leadership.
Dominating the Court
The Panthers wasted no time in asserting their dominance, particularly in the first half of the game. Led by Trey Campbell’s 11 points, Northern Iowa capitalized on a solid 50% shooting performance, outscoring Belmont 24-12 inside the paint. A pivotal 13-0 scoring run allowed them to establish a commanding double-digit lead, further solidified by successful three-point shots from Campbell, Jacob Hutson, and Kyle Pock.
Second Half Resilience
As Belmont intensified their offensive pressure, attempting 19 three-point shots, the Panthers remained unfazed. Stellar performances from Leon Bond III, Tytan Anderson, and Ben Schwieger propelled the team forward. Bond’s crucial seven rebounds in the second half played a pivotal role in maintaining Northern Iowa’s lead, while Anderson’s ten points in the final frame ensured a solid finish.
Securing the Victory
Ultimately, Anderson emerged as the top scorer of the night with 18 points, showcasing his defensive prowess with three steals and two blocks. Bond and Campbell contributed 15 points each, with Bond matching his career-high rebounds and Campbell showcasing his playmaking ability with four assists. Schwieger added ten points, while Hutson and Hornseth also made valuable contributions to the team’s success.
In a thrilling showdown, Northern Iowa outscored Belmont 40-22 in the paint, underscoring their dominance on both ends of the court. With this impressive victory under their belt, the Panthers are gearing up for their upcoming game against Valparaiso, poised to continue their winning streak in the MVC.
