Northern Iowa defeats UIC 54-60

Northern Iowa Edges UIC in Thrilling Conference Showdown

In a back-and-forth contest, the Northern Iowa Panthers outlasted the host University of Illinois Chicago Flames 60-54 in a highly competitive conference matchup at Credit Union 1 Arena.

The game's narrative thread was woven around the Panthers' impressive comeback, erasing a four-point deficit at halftime to claim the victory. UIC took an early lead, and by intermission, the Flames boasted a 27-23 advantage. However, Northern Iowa's bench and senior leaders proved to be the difference-makers in the second half.

Trey Campbell led the Panthers with 15 points on 3-for-7 three-point shooting. Campbell's ability to create off the dribble and score from beyond the arc was instrumental in keeping UIC at bay. Campbell also displayed his well-roundedness, grabbing six rebounds and dishing out two assists.

On the other side, Leon Bond III dominated the paint for Northern Iowa, hauling in 11 rebounds while contributing 10 points and four assists. The senior's all-around prowess was crucial in steadying the Panthers' offense during the second half.

The Flames' Rashund Washington Jr. notched 11 points on 1-for-4 three-point attempts. Mekhi Lowery chipped in with nine rebounds, ten points, two assists, and two steals.

Despite UIC's strong defensive efforts, Northern Iowa's superior shooting percentages proved decisive. The Panthers boasted a 53.1 effective field goal percentage to the Flames' 39.2, while their free-throw shooting margin was a significant 4.7 percentage points.

The final score was never in doubt by the end of the fourth quarter, with the largest lead being six points for Northern Iowa. This win marks a pivotal moment in the conference standings, as both teams vie for playoff spots.