30 Facts About Northern Iowa Basketball

Northern Iowa Basketball: A Storied Program

Northern Iowa Basketball has a rich history filled with memorable moments, legendary players, and impressive achievements. Here are some fascinating facts about this remarkable program.

1. The Panthers' First NCAA Tournament Appearance
   Northern Iowa made its first NCAA Tournament appearance in 1990. This marked the beginning of their journey on the national stage.

2. Historic Upset Over Kansas
   In 2010, Northern Iowa stunned the basketball world by defeating the top-seeded Kansas Jayhawks in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. This victory is considered one of the biggest upsets in tournament history.

3. Ben Jacobson's Coaching Legacy
   Ben Jacobson has been the head coach of the Panthers since 2006. Under his leadership, the team has achieved numerous milestones and maintained a competitive edge.

4. First Missouri Valley Conference Title
   The Panthers won their first Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) title in 2009. This victory solidified their status as a formidable team in the conference.

5. Ali Farokhmanesh's Iconic Shot
   Ali Farokhmanesh became a household name after hitting a crucial three-pointer against Kansas in the 2010 NCAA Tournament. His shot is still celebrated by fans.

Memorable Players and Coaches

Northern Iowa has been home to many talented players and coaches who have left a lasting impact on the program.

6. Seth Tuttle's Dominance
   Seth Tuttle, a standout player from 2011 to 2015, was named MVC Player of the Year in 2015. His contributions were pivotal to the team's success.

7. Greg McDermott's Tenure
   Before Ben Jacobson, Greg McDermott served as head coach from 2001 to 2006. He laid the foundation for the program's future success.

8. Adam Koch's Leadership
   Adam Koch, who played from 2006 to 2010, was known for his leadership on and off the court. He was named MVC Player of the Year in 2010.

9. Paul Jesperson's Half-Court Buzzer-Beater
   Paul Jesperson made headlines with his half-court buzzer-beater to defeat Texas in the 2016 NCAA Tournament. This shot is one of the most memorable moments in tournament history.

10. Eric Coleman’s Rebounding Prowess
    Eric Coleman, who played from 2004 to 2008, is remembered for his exceptional rebounding skills. He ranks among the top rebounders in program history.

Achievements and Records

The Panthers have set numerous records and achieved significant milestones throughout their history.

11. Most Wins in a Season
    The 2009-2010 team set a program record with 30 wins in a single season. This remarkable achievement highlighted their dominance that year.

12. First Sweet Sixteen Appearance
    Northern Iowa reached the Sweet Sixteen for the first time in 2010. This deep tournament run showcased their potential on the national stage.

13. MVC Regular Season Titles
    The Panthers have won multiple MVC regular-season titles, demonstrating consistent excellence in conference play.

14. NCAA Tournament Appearances
    Northern Iowa has made several NCAA Tournament appearances, cementing their reputation as a competitive program.

15. Top 25 Rankings
    The Panthers have been ranked in the AP Top 25 multiple times, reflecting their status as one of the top teams in the nation.

Community and Fan Support

The support from the community and fans has been instrumental in the success of Northern Iowa Basketball.

16. The McLeod Center
    The McLeod Center, opened in 2006, is the home of Northern Iowa Basketball. This state-of-the-art facility provides an excellent environment for players and fans.

17. Panther Nation
    The passionate fan base, known as Panther Nation, plays a crucial role in creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere at games.

18. Support from Alumni
    Alumni support has been vital in the growth and development of the program. Many former players and coaches remain actively involved.

19. Community Engagement
    The team actively engages with the local community through various outreach programs and events, fostering a strong bond with fans.

20. Student Section
    The student section at Northern Iowa games is known for its enthusiasm and creativity, providing unwavering support to the team.

Notable Rivalries

Rivalries add excitement and intensity to the basketball season. Northern Iowa has several notable rivalries that fans eagerly anticipate.

21. In-State Rivalry with Iowa State
    The rivalry with Iowa State is one of the most anticipated matchups each season. Games between these two teams are always highly competitive.

22. Battle for the Corn
    The rivalry with the University of Iowa, known as the "Battle for the Corn," is another highlight of the season. This matchup draws significant attention from fans and media.

23. MVC Rivalries
    Within the Missouri Valley Conference, Northern Iowa has developed intense rivalries with teams like Wichita State and Illinois State.

24. Drake University Showdowns
    The games against Drake University are always fiercely contested, adding to the excitement of the season.

25. Historic Matchups
    Over the years, Northern Iowa has faced off against many top programs, creating memorable moments and building a rich history of competition.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, Northern Iowa Basketball continues to strive for excellence and build on its storied legacy.

26. Recruiting Success
    The program has consistently attracted talented recruits, ensuring a bright future for the team.

27. Facility Upgrades
    Ongoing upgrades to training and practice facilities demonstrate the program's commitment to providing the best resources for players.

28. Strong Coaching Staff
    The coaching staff, led by Ben Jacobson, remains dedicated to developing players and achieving success on the court.

29. Academic Excellence
    Northern Iowa Basketball places a strong emphasis on academic success, with many players excelling in their studies.

30. Community Support
    Continued support from the community and alumni will be crucial in maintaining the program's success and fostering a winning culture.

Final Whistle on Northern Iowa Basketball

Northern Iowa basketball has a rich history filled with memorable moments and remarkable achievements. From stunning upsets to record-breaking performances, the Panthers have made their mark in college basketball. Their dedicated fan base, known for their unwavering support, adds to the electric atmosphere at games. The team’s commitment to excellence and hard work has earned them respect and admiration.

Whether it's the thrilling victories or the heartfelt community involvement, Northern Iowa basketball embodies the spirit of the sport. The Panthers continue to inspire both on and off the court, proving that passion and perseverance can lead to greatness. Keep an eye on this team; their journey is far from over, and more exciting chapters are sure to unfold.