SIOUX FALLS, S.D. -- Western Kentucky felt its depth, as well as its experience, would help it throughout the season.
It didn't take long for it to shine through in a game.
The Hilltoppers had 42 points off the bench in Wednesday's season opener, beating Northern Iowa 93-87 to advance to the winners bracket of the Bad Bow Mowers Crossover Classic at the Sanford Pentagon.
"I've always said this -- it's not the first five that run out there that win the game for you," WKU head coach Rick Stansbury said. "Everybody wants to go out there first, and I don't always start your best team or your best players sometimes.