CEDAR FALLS, Ia. — For about 30 minutes or so Sunday, things appeared different.
The offensive struggles that have largely permeated through Northern Iowa’s recent play were limited. There was no swift 20-point hole. The Panthers hung within single digits through much of the second half. There was some hope, some evidence that things were trending differently after what has been a brutal recent stretch.
But the Panthers essentially needed perfection. And ultimately, Wichita State showed why it’s the Missouri Valley standard, closing things out strong for an 80-66 win over the Panthers at the McLeod Center.