UNI Panthers Dominate Bradley with Defensive Prowess
CEDAR FALLS, Iowa – The Northern Iowa Panthers secured a decisive 61-49 victory over the Bradley Braves on Friday night, showcasing a dominant defensive performance that held Bradley to their season-low point total. The win, played before a season-high 4,186 fans during the Panthers In Paradise Game, improves UNI’s Missouri Valley Conference record to 7-6.
First-Half Surge Fueled by Turnovers
The game began as a low-scoring affair, with both teams battling for early control. Bradley briefly took a five-point lead, but UNI quickly responded with an 8-0 run, highlighted by key baskets from RJ Taylor, Ben Schwieger, and Kyle Pock. The Panthers capitalized on eight first-half turnovers by the Braves, converting them into ten points. UNI shot 40.9% from the field in the first half, while limiting Bradley to just 26% shooting, taking a 30-23 lead into halftime.
Second-Half Dominance and Interior Strength
UNI extended its lead in the second half, reaching a 19-point advantage through continued defensive pressure. They forced another eight turnovers and scored ten more points off takeaways. The Panthers found success inside, scoring 18 points in the paint, led by Will Hornseth’s eight points in the period and six from Trey Campbell. UNI also controlled the offensive rebounding battle, 4-0, in the final frame.
Key Performances and Coaching Insights
Ben Schwieger led all scorers with 15 points. Will Hornseth contributed ten points, along with a career-high nine rebounds and six assists. Kyle Pock added ten points, while Leon Bond III scored eight, Trey Campbell seven, and Max Weisbrod six. Head Coach Ben Jacobson praised his team’s defensive effort, stating, “We were good defensively tonight and our guys were dug in and I feel it’s only going to get better.” He also highlighted the team’s ability to keep the ball above the free throw line and the strong play of Hornseth and Ismael.
Statistical Highlights and Team Records
- UNI now holds a 38-41 all-time record against Bradley, with the last three regular season matchups being won by the home team.
- The Panthers are 11-2 this season when holding opponents under 60 points, and have held four opponents under 50 points.
- UNI has made at least one three-pointer in 171 consecutive games.
- The Panthers forced a season-high tying 16 Bradley turnovers and outscored the Braves 30-10 off turnovers.
- Bradley shot just five-of-19 from inside the arc.
- Kyle Pock recorded his first double-figure scoring game since December 1st.
- Graduate forward Tristan Smith returned to action after missing eight games with an injury.
- Trey Campbell is nearing his 500th career point as a Panther.
- Trey Campbell started his 120th career game, tying him for third-most in team history, and leads all active MVC players in career starts. He also passed Jeremy Morgan for 22nd on UNI’s all-time scoring list with 1,224 points.
Looking Ahead: Matchup with Murray State
The Panthers will be back in action on Monday, February 9th, traveling to Kentucky to face the Murray State Racers. Tip-off is scheduled for 9 p.m. CT and will be broadcast on CBS Sports Network and the Panther Sports Radio Network (93.5 The Mix).
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many turnovers did UNI force? UNI forced 16 turnovers from Bradley.
- Who led UNI in scoring? Ben Schwieger led the Panthers with 15 points.
- What is UNI’s record when holding opponents under 60 points? UNI is 11-2 when holding opponents under 60 points.
- Is Tristan Smith back from injury? Yes, Tristan Smith returned to action against Bradley after missing eight games.
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