Northern Iowa used a strong first half Friday to build up a lead and eventually pull away for a 91-78 victory over in-state rival Drake at the McLeod Center.
The Panthers (18-11, 10-8 Missouri Valley Conference) jumped out to a 7-0 lead thanks to sophomore guard Kam Finley, who scored UNI's first 10 points as part of her team-high 28-point night. UNI never trailed after Finley's first bucket gave the Panthers the lead just 13 seconds after tipoff.
Becca Hittner led Drake (22-8, 14-4 MVC) with 29 points. Sara Rhine added 19 points and 15 rebounds, but it wasn't enough to overcome 20 turnovers and efficient shooting from the Panthers.