CEDAR FALLS, Ia. — Don’t let Northern Iowa’s smooth shooting fool you.
Smothering defense set the tone Saturday for an emphatic 77-44 win over Drake at the McLeod Center.
The Panthers allowed just five shots in the opening 9 ½ minutes and forced 11 turnovers in the first half.
The Bulldogs never recovered, making less than 36 percent of their shots.
Wes Washpun provided a signature highlight when he turned a steal into a crowd-pleasing dunk, giving Northern Iowa a 39-17 lead with 1:23 remaining before halftime.
Matt Bohannon was the Panthers’ most productive offensive player, hitting seven of 11 from the floor and finishing with 21 points.