University of Northern Iowa Athletics
Wednesday, January 25
Cedar Falls, Iowa
7 p.m.
University of Northern Iowa
vs
Evansville
Photo by: Mike Dunlop
UNI, Evansville Ready for Wednesday Tip in McLeod
1/23/2017 3:52:00 PM | Men's Basketball
COMPLETE RELEASE (PDF)
Evansville (10-11, 1-7) at UNI (8-11, 3-5) | ESPN3 | AUDIO | STATS
Wed., Jan. 25, 2017 • 7 p.m. (CT)
Cedar Falls, Iowa • McLeod Center
TICKET INFORMATION
UNI is offering a ticket deal in the general admission area with $10 adult tickets and $5 youth (16-and-under) tickets for its remaining five home games.
Call 319-273-4849 or visit www.UNIPanthers.com/tickets to order.
BROADCAST INFORMATION
Television
Panther Sports Network/ESPN3
Play-by-Play: Eric Braley
Analyst: Kevin Lehman
Clearances: Cedar Falls Utilities Ch. 15, KCRG Ch. 9.2, WHO Ch. 13.3, KGCW Ch. 26, Time Warner Cable Kansas City Ch. 324, Comcast SportsNet Chicago-PLUS and ESPN3
Radio
Panther Sports Network
Play-by-Play: Gary Rima
Analyst: Kevin Boyle
Flagship Station - NewsTalk 1540 KXEL
On the Web - www.UNIPanthers.com
TuneIn App
Stats
UNI.Statbroadcast.com
SERIES NOTES
All-Times Series: Tied at 25-25
• Last Meeting: Evansville 70, UNI 58 (Jan. 1, 2017)
• The Panthers have won four of the last five overall meetings between the two programs.
• Evansville is 2-8 in the McLeod Center.
UNI MEN'S BASKETBALL STORYLINES
• UNI (8-11 overall, 3-5 MVC) returns home to the McLeod Center riding a three-game winning streak. The Panthers will take on the Evansville Purple Aces (10-11, 1-7 MVC) Wednesday at 7 p.m.
• The Panthers have matched their longest win streak of the season with three consecutive wins.
• In each of UNI's last three victories, the Panthers have had four players reach double-figure scoring.
• UNI's last two wins have come in games decided by three points or less. The last time UNI won back-to-back games by three points or less came in the 2010-11 season when the Panthers defeated Missouri State (60-59) and Illinois State (53-51).
• Junior Bennett Koch recorded his second career double-double and each time it has come against Southern Illinois. Koch scored 12 points and 11 rebounds in a 58-57 come-from-behind win in Carbondale, Ill.
• Over the last six games, senior guard Jordan Ashton is averaging 13.2 points per game and has reached double-figure scoring in each contest.Ashton is shooting 54.0 percent from the field and 53.6 percent from beyond the three-point arc in his last six games.
UNI MEN'S BASKETBALL NOTES VS. EVANSVILLE
UNI RETURNS TO MCLEOD RIDING THREE-GAME WIN STREAK
UNI (8-11 overall, 3-5 MVC) returns home to the McLeod Center riding a three-game winning streak. The Panthers will take on the Evansville Purple Aces (10-11, 1-7 MVC) Wednesday at 7 p.m.
BROADCAST INFORMATION
Wednesday's game will be available for viewing on the Panther Sports Television Network.
Eric Braley (play-by-play) and Kevin Lehman (analyst) will call the contest.
Clearances for the game include Cedar Falls Utilities Ch. 15, KCRG Ch. 9.2, WHO Ch. 13.3, KGCW Ch. 26, Time Warner Cable Kansas City Ch. 324, Comcast SportsNet Chicago-PLUS and ESPN3.
EVANSVILLE PURPLE ACES
Since scoring a 70-58 win over UNI on Jan. 1, the Evansville Purple Aces have lost six straight games.
The Purple Aces are led by the MVC's leading scorer in Jaylon Brown (21.0 ppg). Ryan Taylor ranks second on the team in scoring at 15.5 ppg.
Evansville is 1-8 in road/neutral games this season with its only victory coming at Austin Peay (77-69) on Dec. 17.
ALL-TIME SERIES
Wednesday marks the 51st meeting between UNI and Evansville on the hardwood. Both schools have each won 25 games in the all-time series.
Evansville scored a 70-58 victory over UNI when the squads met earlier this season on Jan. 1 in the Ford Center.
The Panthers have won four of the last five overall meetings between the two programs.
UNI head coach Ben Jacobson is 14-8 against Evansville. Jacobson is 8-2 vs. the Purple Aces in the McLeod Center.
THREE STRAIGHT WINS
The Panthers have matched their longest win streak of the season with three consecutive wins.
UNI began the season with three wins over Coe, Arizona State and Oklahoma.
BALANCED ATTACK IN VICTORIES
In each of UNI's last three victories, the Panthers have had four players reach double-figure scoring.
In a 79-60 win over Drake, UNI had double-figure scoring from Jeremy Morgan (21), Bennett Koch (21), Jordan Ashton (17) and Spencer Haldeman (10).
In its 72-69 victory over Loyola, UNI got double-figure scoring from Bennett Koch (21), Jeremy Morgan (17), Jordan Ashton (13) and Luke McDonnell (13).
In Saturday's 58-57 win at SIU, UNI had double-figure scorers in Jordan Ashton (14), Spencer Haldeman (13), Bennett Koch (12) and Klint Carlson (10).
ONE POSSESSION TRIUMPHS
UNI's last two wins have come in games decided by three points or less with a 72-69 double-overtime triumph over Loyola and a 58-57 victory at Southern Illinois.
The last time UNI won back-to-back games by three points or less came in the 2010-11 season when the Panthers defeated Missouri State (60-59) and Illinois State (53-51).
KOCH TURNS IN DOUBLE-DOUBLE
Junior Bennett Koch recorded his second career double-double and each time it has come against Southern Illinois.
Koch scored 12 points and 11 rebounds in a 58-57 come-from-behind win in Carbondale, Ill., on Saturday.
Koch's only previous double-double came at home against SIU on Jan. 31, 2016, when he posted 22 points and 11 rebounds.
UNI's Active Double-Double List
Jeremy Morgan (4)
Bennett Koch (2)
Jordan Ashton (1)
Klint Carlson (1)
ASHTON IS DOUBLING UP IN HIS LAST SIX GAMES
Over the last six games, senior guard Jordan Ashton is averaging 13.2 points per game and has reached double-figure scoring in each contest.
Ashton is shooting 54.0 percent from the field and 53.6 percent from beyond the three-point arc in his last six games.
Ashton has tallied six consecutive double-figure scoring games, including a career-high 17 points Sunday vs. Drake.
MCDONNELL OFF THE BENCH
Redshirt freshman Luke McDonnell has provided a spark off the bench in MVC play for the Panthers.
McDonnell scored a career-high 13 points on 6-of-8 shooting in 16 minutes of action in a 72-69 double-overtime win over Loyola (1/18).
McDonnell has played in seven conference games and has scored 37 points (5.3 ppg).
In the non-conference portion of the season, McDonnell played in five games and scored seven points.
MORGAN CLOSES IN ON 500/500 CLUB
Senior guard Jeremy Morgan needs three rebounds to become the 25th UNI men's basketball player to record at least 500 points and 500 rebounds in his career.
Morgan has posted 497 rebounds in his Panther career to go along with 1,081 points.
UNI's 500 Points/500 Rebounds Club
Name (Years) Pts./Rbs.
Del Nicklaus (1954-57) 604/611
Ron La Frentz (1957-60) 723/551
Jim Jackson (1959-61) 891/1,097
Pete Spoden (1959-63) 1,239/1,104
Craig Kneppe (1963-66) 1,200/685
Ken Huelman (1966-69) 1,275/818
John Martin (1967-70) 1,027/571
Randy Beilke (1970-73) 729/752
Darrell Timion (1971-73) 722/586
Bill Runchey (1973-76) 830/534
Randy Podhaski (1974-77) 831/510
Ron Lemons (1975-79) 1,476/760
Bill Jones (1978-81) 915/574
Jason Reese (1986-90) 2,033/773
Troy Muilenburg (1987-91) 1,251/599
Joe Breakenridge (1997-01) 956/766
David Gruber (2001-04) 1,116/625
Grant Stout (2003-07) 1,232/920
Eric Coleman (2004-08) 1,522/997
Jordan Eglseder (2006-10) 1,066/656
Adam Koch (2006-10) 1,186/596
Lucas O'Rear (2007-11) 529/517
Jake Koch (2009-2013) 1,113/677
Seth Tuttle (2011-2015) 1,747/917
Jeremy Morgan (2013-pres.) 1,081/497
MORGAN RANKS AMONG THE NATION'S BEST
Senior Jeremy Morgan, the preseason MVC player of the year, is the only player in the NCAA to average 10.0 points (16.9), 3.0 rebounds (6.6), 2.0 assists (3.1), 2.0 steals (2.4) and 1.0 blocks (1.4).
No NCAA player in the past 10 seasons has done the following for a season: 15.0 ppg, 5.0 rpg, 2.0 apg, 2.0 spg, 1.5 blocks, 2.0 3FGM/g, and only one has done that stat line in the past 20 seasons (Shane Battier of Duke in 1999-00).
Morgan leads UNI in scoring, rebounding, assists, steals, blocks, 3FGM, and FTM.
MORGAN NETS 1,000 POINTS
Jeremy Morgan became the 41st member of UNI's 1,000 point club at Evansville (1/1).
Morgan has tallied 1,081 career points and ranks No. 31 on UNI's all-time scoring list.
UNI'S 1,000-POINT SCORERS SINCE 2001
Morgan became the 16th Panther to score 1,000 or more points since the start of the 2001 season – the first season that Ben Jacobson joined the coaching staff as an assistant. Jacobson took over the head job in the 2006-07 season.
1,000-Point Scorers Since 2001
Ben Jacobson (2003-06) 1,787 pts.
Seth Tuttle (2011-15) 1,747 pts.
Eric Coleman (2005-08) 1,522 pts.
Kwadzo Ahelegbe (2006-11) 1,329 pts.
Anthony James (2008-13) 1,305 pts.
Grant Stout (2004-07) 1,232 pts.
Deon Mitchell (2011-15) 1,200 pts.
Adam Koch (2006-10) 1,186 pts.
David Gruber (2002-04) 1,116 pts.
Jake Koch (2009-2013) 1,113 pts.
Matt Bohannon (2011-16.) 1,092 pts.
Jeremy Morgan (2013-pres.) 1,081 pts.
Jordan Eglseder (2006-10) 1,066 pts.
Johnny Moran (2008-12) 1,048 pts.
Wes Washpun (2013-16.) 1,035 pts.
Chris Foster (2000-05) 1,027 pts.
MORGAN MOVING UP THE DEFENSIVE CHARTS
Senior guard Jeremy Morgan, who earned a spot on last year's MVC All-Defensive squad, is making his way up the UNI defensive charts in regard to blocked shots and steals.
Morgan ranks No. 2 at UNI in steals (168) and No. 7 in blocked shots (92).
Morgan is looking to become only the second UNI player to tally 100 steals and 100 blocks in his career. The only previous Panther to achieve that feat was Jake Koch, who posted 118 steals and 123 blocks from 2009-2013.
STEALS - UNI (CAREER)
1. Brent Carmichael (1981-83) 180
2. Jeremy Morgan (2013-pres.) 168
3. Nick Nurse (1986-89) 165
4. Andy Woodley (1998-02) 159
5. Ben Jacobson (2002-06) 154
6. Johnny Moran (2008-12) 152
7. Dale Turner (1988-92) 143
8. Robbie Williams (1982-86) 140
9. Brian Carpenter (1992-96) 138
10. Darian DeVries (1994-98) 131
BLOCKED SHOTS - UNI (CAREER)
1. Grant Stout (2004-0) 222
2. Jake Koch (2009-13) 123
3. Jordan Eglseder (2006-10) 120
4. Sean Hawkins (1995-98) 118
5. Eric Coleman (2004-08) 115
6. Seth Tuttle (2011-15) 95
7. Jeremy Morgan (2013-pres.) 92
8. Jason Sims (1993-96) 90
9. Scott Stafford (1984-85) 85
10. Steve Phyfe (1988-90) 66
MORGAN KNOCKS DOWN TRIPLES TOO
Senior guard Jeremy Morgan can also knock down the three-point shot.
Morgan has tallied 151 career three-pointers made to rank No. 9 all-time at UNI.
THREE-POINTERS MADE - UNI (CAREER)
1. Matt Bohannon (2012-16) 268
2. Ben Jacobson (2002-06) 203
3. Johnny Moran (2008-12) 201
Marc Sonnen (2009-13) 201
5. Nick Nurse (1985-89) 170
6. Darian DeVries (1994-98) 166
7. Robbie Sieverding (1998-02) 157
8. Ali Farohkmanesh (2008-10) 152
9. Jeremy Morgan (2013-pres.) 151
10. Maurice Newby (1987-91) 146
FOR STARTERS
UNI has used eight different starting lineups this season in its 19 games.
UNI has had nine different players draw starts this season.
UNI's 2016-17 Starting Lineups
Carlson-McCloud-Morgan-Koch-Ashton (6)
Carlson-McCloud-Morgan-Koch-Lohaus (4)
Carlson-McCloud-Morgan-Koch-Haldeman (2)
Carlson-Morgan-Ashton-Koch-Haldeman (2)
Friedman-McCloud-Morgan-Brown-Haldeman (2)
Carlson-McCloud-Ashton-Koch-Haldeman (1)
Carlson-Friedman-McCloud-Morgan-Ashton (1)
Carlson-Friedman-McCloud-Morgan-Haldeman (1)
3-POINT TALK
UNI has made at least one 3-pointer in 550 straight games – the longest active streak in the MVC.
AMONG THE ELITE
UNI is one of 13 teams to have won at least one game in the NCAA Tournament and accumulate 54 combined wins over the previous two seasons.
The elite list of squads include UNI, Duke, Gonzaga, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, Notre Dame, Oregon, Villanova, Wichita State, Wisconsin and Virginia.
BOOK IT IN THE UPPER HALF
UNI's streak of 13 straight upper-half finishes in the MVC is the league's longest active streak.
NINE OR MORE MVC WINS
The Panthers have won nine or more MVC games in each of the past 13 seasons – also the MVC's longest active streak.
TOP-FOUR FINISHES IN MVC
UNI has finished in the top four of the MVC standings in eight consecutive seasons.
IN THE UPPER HALF
UNI has finished in the upper half of the Missouri Valley Conference's final standings in 13 straight seasons. It is the longest active streak in the league.
Prior to the 2003-04 season, when the current streak began, UNI had finished in the top half of the MVC on two occasions (1993-94 - 5th, 1996-97 - 4th) since joining the league in 1991-92.
13 STRAIGHT YEARS OF 9 OR MORE MVC WINS
UNI has won nine or more MVC games in 13 consecutive seasons - the longest active streak in the league.
Wichita State has the second longest active streak at seven.
UNI in the MVC Since 2003-04
2003-04 - 12-6 (T-2nd)
2004-05 - 11-7 (T-3rd)
2005-06 - 11-7 (T-5th)
2006-07 - 9-9 (5th)
2007-08 - 9-9 (T-5th)
2008-09 - 14-4 (T-1st)
2009-10 - 15-3 (1st)
2010-11 - 10-8 (T-4th)
2011-12 - 9-9 (T-3rd)
2012-13 - 11-7 (3rd)
2013-14 - 10-8 (3rd)
2014-15 - 16-2 (2nd)
2015-16 - 11-7 (T-4th)
EIGHT NCAA TRIPS FOR UNI
UNI made its eighth appearance in the NCAA Tournament last season. The Panthers are 5-8 all-time in the NCAA Tournament.
UNI's All-Time NCAA Tourney Results
1990 - W, 74-71 vs. #3 Missouri
1990 - L, 84-81 vs. #6 Minnesota
2004 - L, 65-60 vs. #3 Georgia Tech
2005 - L, 57-52 vs. #6 Wisconsin
2006 - L, 54-49 vs. #7 Georgetown
2009 - L, 61-56 vs. #5 Purdue
2010 - W, 69-66 vs. #8 UNLV
2010 - W, 69-67 vs. #1 Kansas
2010 - L, 59-52 vs. #5 Michigan State
2015 - W, 71-54 vs. #12 Wyoming
2015 - L, 66-53 vs. #4 Louisville
2016 - W, 75-72 vs. #6 Texas
2016 - L, 92-88 (2OT) vs. #3 Texas A&M
MVC's Dance Partners
Since the 2003-04 season, UNI and Wichita State have made the most appearances in the NCAA Tournament for the Missouri Valley Conference.
The Panthers have made seven NCAA Tournament apperances since the 2003-04 season, while the Shockers have appeared in six NCAA tournaments in the same time frame.
MVC'S NCAA Appearances Since 2004
UNI (7) - 2004, 2005, 2006, 2009, 2010, 2015, 2016
Wichita St. (6) - 2006, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016
Southern Illinois (4) - 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007
Creighton (4) - 2005, 2007, 2012, 2013
Indiana State (1) - 2011
Drake (1) - 2008
Bradley (1) - 2006
20-WIN SEASONS
UNI has had 12 20-win seasons in program history – 10 of those 20-win seasons have come since 2003-04.
WINNING TRADITION IN MCLEOD CENTER
UNI is playing its 11th season in the McLeod Center and the Panthers have made winning a priority in their home venue.
UNI has posted an all-time mark of 129-34 (.791) in games played in the McLeod Center.
UNI secured a school-record 16 home wins in the 2012-13 season.
UNI has posted a trio of perfect home seasons since moving to NCAA Division I. UNI was a perfect 14-0 in both the 1983-84 and 2009-10 seasons and then UNI notched a 15-0 mark at home in 2014-15.
UNI set its home-court win streak of 21 consecutive victories between the 2008-09 and 2010-11 seasons.
The McLeod Center opened in November 2006.
11 HOME WINS IN 9 STRAIGHT YRS
UNI has won 11 or more home games in the McLeod Center in nine consecutive seasons.
UNI's Home Record Since 2007-08
Year Record
2007-08 11-6
2008-09 11-4
2009-10 14-0
2010-11 13-5
2011-12 13-3
2012-13 16-4
2013-14 11-2
2014-15 15-0
2015-16 11-3
2016-17 5-3
PROTECTING THE HOME COURT
UNI has won 11 or more home games in the McLeod Center in nine consecutive seasons.
JAKE RANKS AMONG VALLEY'S ALL-TIME WINNINGEST COACHES
UNI head coach Ben Jacobson ranks No. 6 in the Missouri Valley Confernce history in victories (228).
Jacobson also ranks No. 7 in league history in MVC games only (117).
Henry Iba tops both lists with 486 total wins and 187 league wins.
MVC Coaching Victories
1. Henry P. Iba (Oklahoma State) 486
2. Eddie Hickey (Creighton/St. Louis) 337
3. Dana Altman (Creighton) 327
4. Gregg Marshall (Wichita State) 247
5. Barry Hinson (Missouri State/SIU) 242
6. Ben Jacobson (UNI) 228
7. Rich Herrin (Southern Illinois) 225
8. Ralph Miller (Wichita State) 221
9. Maury John (Drake) 211
10. Joe Stowell (Bradley) 197
MVC Coaching Wins (Conf. Games Only)
1. Henry P. Iba (Oklahoma State) 187
2. Dana Altman (Creighton) 182
3. Eddie Hickey (Creighton/St. Louis) 163
4. Barry Hinson (Missouri State/SIU) 128
5. Dr. F.C. Allen (Kansas) 126
6. Gregg Marshall (Wichita State) 124
7. Ben Jacobson (UNI) 117
8. Rich Herrin (Southern Illinois) 111
9. Jim Molinari (Bradley) 110
10. Maurice John (Drake) 95
UNI MBB IN APR TOP-10 PERCENT
The UNI men's basketball, men's golf, women's golf, women's cross country and women's volleyball teams have been recognized by the NCAA for their latest multi-year Academic Progress Rate (APR) scores. These teams posted multi-year APR scores in the top 10 percent of all squads in their respective sports.
The UNI men's basketball team has been recognized with a perfect APR score (1,000) in each of the last four seasons - the only MVC school to do that in each of the past three years.
The APR provides a real-time look at a team's academic success each semester by tracking the academic progress of each student-athlete on scholarship. The APR accounts for eligibility, retention and graduation and provides a measure of each team's academic performance.
UNI SIGNS PHYFE TO NLI
UNI head men's basketball coach Ben Jacobson announced the signing of Austin Phyfe (Waverly, Iowa/Waverly-Shell Rock HS) to a National Letter-of-Intent to play for the Panthers beginning in 2017-18.
Phyfe (6'9", 235 lbs., Forward) is the No. 2 recruit in the state of Iowa, according to IowaPreps.com. He earned second-team all-state honors from the Iowa Newspaper Association as a junior for head coach Nate Stegge. Phyfe notched third-team all-state accolades as a sophomore. Phyfe is a three-time all-Northeast Iowa Conference pick, including a pair of first-team honors the past two seasons. Phyfe averaged 14.5 points, grabbed 8.4 rebounds and shot 64 percent from the field in leading Waverly-Shell Rock to an 18-6 record in 2015-16. Phyfe scored 13.7 points and grabbed 7.9 rebounds as a sophomore in helping the GoHawks to a 22-3 record and a berth into the state tournament. As a freshman, he helped the GoHawks the state tournament and into the semifinals. Phyfe played AAU for the Iowa Barnstormers.
He is the son of Steve and Lisa Phyfe. His father, Steve, played basketball for the Panthers from 1987-1990. His sister, Aftin, is a member of the UNI swimming and diving team.
UNI TO PLAY IN 2017 BATTLE 4 ATLANTIS
Celebrating its seventh year of elite collegiate tournament play, the 2017 Battle 4 Atlantis will include Villanova, Arizona, Purdue, North Carolina State, Tennessee, Southern Methodist, Western Kentucky and UNI.
The 2017 early season tournament field boasts a combined 16 Final Four appearances and five National Championships between the field. The annual Battle 4 Atlantis once again falls during the Thanksgiving holiday, scheduled to take place November 22-24, 2017. The 12-game, three-day tournament is regarded as one of the most challenging early-season tournaments.
It will mark UNI's second appearance in the Battle 4 Atlantis. UNI also took part in the tournament in the 2012 Battle 4 Atlantis as the Panthers played Louisville, Stanford and Memphis.
RADIO INFORMATION
This year's UNI men's basketball games can be heard on the UNI Sports Radio Network, with KXEL (1540 AM, Waterloo, Iowa) serving as flagship station. Affiliates include KBGG (1700 AM, Des Moines), KGYM (1600 AM, Cedar Rapids), KQCR (98.9 FM, Hampton), KILJ (105.5 FM, Mount Pleasant), KFXE (1160 AM, Decorah-Waukon) and KVFD (1400 AM, Fort Dodge).
Long-time Panthers announcer Gary Rima handles play-by-play duties, while Kevin Boyle serves as analyst. Head coach Ben Jacobson's weekly radio call-in show will air on Thursdays, beginning in December at 6 p.m., live from The Other Place in Cedar Falls.
WEEKLY PRESS LUNCHEONS
UNI head coach Ben Jacobson or a member of his coaching staff will be available at the weekly Press Luncheons held each Monday beginning at noon in the back room of Pepper's Grill and Sports Pub located on 18th Street in Cedar Falls.
FOLLOW THE PANTHERS ON FACEBOOK, TWITTER & YOUTUBE
Fans of UNI Athletics on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram will have access to updates, score recaps and special announcements.
FACEBOOK
www.facebook.com/UNIAthletics
www.facebook.com/UNIMensBasketball
TWITTER
www.twitter.com/UNIAthletics
www.twittercom/UNIMBB
YOUTUBE
www.youtube.com/UNIAthletics
INSTAGRAM
www.instagram.com/UNIAthletics
Evansville (10-11, 1-7) at UNI (8-11, 3-5) | ESPN3 | AUDIO | STATS
Wed., Jan. 25, 2017 • 7 p.m. (CT)
Cedar Falls, Iowa • McLeod Center
TICKET INFORMATION
UNI is offering a ticket deal in the general admission area with $10 adult tickets and $5 youth (16-and-under) tickets for its remaining five home games.
Call 319-273-4849 or visit www.UNIPanthers.com/tickets to order.
BROADCAST INFORMATION
Television
Panther Sports Network/ESPN3
Play-by-Play: Eric Braley
Analyst: Kevin Lehman
Clearances: Cedar Falls Utilities Ch. 15, KCRG Ch. 9.2, WHO Ch. 13.3, KGCW Ch. 26, Time Warner Cable Kansas City Ch. 324, Comcast SportsNet Chicago-PLUS and ESPN3
Radio
Panther Sports Network
Play-by-Play: Gary Rima
Analyst: Kevin Boyle
Flagship Station - NewsTalk 1540 KXEL
On the Web - www.UNIPanthers.com
TuneIn App
Stats
UNI.Statbroadcast.com
SERIES NOTES
All-Times Series: Tied at 25-25
• Last Meeting: Evansville 70, UNI 58 (Jan. 1, 2017)
• The Panthers have won four of the last five overall meetings between the two programs.
• Evansville is 2-8 in the McLeod Center.
UNI MEN'S BASKETBALL STORYLINES
• UNI (8-11 overall, 3-5 MVC) returns home to the McLeod Center riding a three-game winning streak. The Panthers will take on the Evansville Purple Aces (10-11, 1-7 MVC) Wednesday at 7 p.m.
• The Panthers have matched their longest win streak of the season with three consecutive wins.
• In each of UNI's last three victories, the Panthers have had four players reach double-figure scoring.
• UNI's last two wins have come in games decided by three points or less. The last time UNI won back-to-back games by three points or less came in the 2010-11 season when the Panthers defeated Missouri State (60-59) and Illinois State (53-51).
• Junior Bennett Koch recorded his second career double-double and each time it has come against Southern Illinois. Koch scored 12 points and 11 rebounds in a 58-57 come-from-behind win in Carbondale, Ill.
• Over the last six games, senior guard Jordan Ashton is averaging 13.2 points per game and has reached double-figure scoring in each contest.Ashton is shooting 54.0 percent from the field and 53.6 percent from beyond the three-point arc in his last six games.
UNI MEN'S BASKETBALL NOTES VS. EVANSVILLE
UNI RETURNS TO MCLEOD RIDING THREE-GAME WIN STREAK
UNI (8-11 overall, 3-5 MVC) returns home to the McLeod Center riding a three-game winning streak. The Panthers will take on the Evansville Purple Aces (10-11, 1-7 MVC) Wednesday at 7 p.m.
BROADCAST INFORMATION
Wednesday's game will be available for viewing on the Panther Sports Television Network.
Eric Braley (play-by-play) and Kevin Lehman (analyst) will call the contest.
Clearances for the game include Cedar Falls Utilities Ch. 15, KCRG Ch. 9.2, WHO Ch. 13.3, KGCW Ch. 26, Time Warner Cable Kansas City Ch. 324, Comcast SportsNet Chicago-PLUS and ESPN3.
EVANSVILLE PURPLE ACES
Since scoring a 70-58 win over UNI on Jan. 1, the Evansville Purple Aces have lost six straight games.
The Purple Aces are led by the MVC's leading scorer in Jaylon Brown (21.0 ppg). Ryan Taylor ranks second on the team in scoring at 15.5 ppg.
Evansville is 1-8 in road/neutral games this season with its only victory coming at Austin Peay (77-69) on Dec. 17.
ALL-TIME SERIES
Wednesday marks the 51st meeting between UNI and Evansville on the hardwood. Both schools have each won 25 games in the all-time series.
Evansville scored a 70-58 victory over UNI when the squads met earlier this season on Jan. 1 in the Ford Center.
The Panthers have won four of the last five overall meetings between the two programs.
UNI head coach Ben Jacobson is 14-8 against Evansville. Jacobson is 8-2 vs. the Purple Aces in the McLeod Center.
THREE STRAIGHT WINS
The Panthers have matched their longest win streak of the season with three consecutive wins.
UNI began the season with three wins over Coe, Arizona State and Oklahoma.
BALANCED ATTACK IN VICTORIES
In each of UNI's last three victories, the Panthers have had four players reach double-figure scoring.
In a 79-60 win over Drake, UNI had double-figure scoring from Jeremy Morgan (21), Bennett Koch (21), Jordan Ashton (17) and Spencer Haldeman (10).
In its 72-69 victory over Loyola, UNI got double-figure scoring from Bennett Koch (21), Jeremy Morgan (17), Jordan Ashton (13) and Luke McDonnell (13).
In Saturday's 58-57 win at SIU, UNI had double-figure scorers in Jordan Ashton (14), Spencer Haldeman (13), Bennett Koch (12) and Klint Carlson (10).
ONE POSSESSION TRIUMPHS
UNI's last two wins have come in games decided by three points or less with a 72-69 double-overtime triumph over Loyola and a 58-57 victory at Southern Illinois.
The last time UNI won back-to-back games by three points or less came in the 2010-11 season when the Panthers defeated Missouri State (60-59) and Illinois State (53-51).
KOCH TURNS IN DOUBLE-DOUBLE
Junior Bennett Koch recorded his second career double-double and each time it has come against Southern Illinois.
Koch scored 12 points and 11 rebounds in a 58-57 come-from-behind win in Carbondale, Ill., on Saturday.
Koch's only previous double-double came at home against SIU on Jan. 31, 2016, when he posted 22 points and 11 rebounds.
UNI's Active Double-Double List
Jeremy Morgan (4)
Bennett Koch (2)
Jordan Ashton (1)
Klint Carlson (1)
ASHTON IS DOUBLING UP IN HIS LAST SIX GAMES
Over the last six games, senior guard Jordan Ashton is averaging 13.2 points per game and has reached double-figure scoring in each contest.
Ashton is shooting 54.0 percent from the field and 53.6 percent from beyond the three-point arc in his last six games.
Ashton has tallied six consecutive double-figure scoring games, including a career-high 17 points Sunday vs. Drake.
MCDONNELL OFF THE BENCH
Redshirt freshman Luke McDonnell has provided a spark off the bench in MVC play for the Panthers.
McDonnell scored a career-high 13 points on 6-of-8 shooting in 16 minutes of action in a 72-69 double-overtime win over Loyola (1/18).
McDonnell has played in seven conference games and has scored 37 points (5.3 ppg).
In the non-conference portion of the season, McDonnell played in five games and scored seven points.
MORGAN CLOSES IN ON 500/500 CLUB
Senior guard Jeremy Morgan needs three rebounds to become the 25th UNI men's basketball player to record at least 500 points and 500 rebounds in his career.
Morgan has posted 497 rebounds in his Panther career to go along with 1,081 points.
UNI's 500 Points/500 Rebounds Club
Name (Years) Pts./Rbs.
Del Nicklaus (1954-57) 604/611
Ron La Frentz (1957-60) 723/551
Jim Jackson (1959-61) 891/1,097
Pete Spoden (1959-63) 1,239/1,104
Craig Kneppe (1963-66) 1,200/685
Ken Huelman (1966-69) 1,275/818
John Martin (1967-70) 1,027/571
Randy Beilke (1970-73) 729/752
Darrell Timion (1971-73) 722/586
Bill Runchey (1973-76) 830/534
Randy Podhaski (1974-77) 831/510
Ron Lemons (1975-79) 1,476/760
Bill Jones (1978-81) 915/574
Jason Reese (1986-90) 2,033/773
Troy Muilenburg (1987-91) 1,251/599
Joe Breakenridge (1997-01) 956/766
David Gruber (2001-04) 1,116/625
Grant Stout (2003-07) 1,232/920
Eric Coleman (2004-08) 1,522/997
Jordan Eglseder (2006-10) 1,066/656
Adam Koch (2006-10) 1,186/596
Lucas O'Rear (2007-11) 529/517
Jake Koch (2009-2013) 1,113/677
Seth Tuttle (2011-2015) 1,747/917
Jeremy Morgan (2013-pres.) 1,081/497
MORGAN RANKS AMONG THE NATION'S BEST
Senior Jeremy Morgan, the preseason MVC player of the year, is the only player in the NCAA to average 10.0 points (16.9), 3.0 rebounds (6.6), 2.0 assists (3.1), 2.0 steals (2.4) and 1.0 blocks (1.4).
No NCAA player in the past 10 seasons has done the following for a season: 15.0 ppg, 5.0 rpg, 2.0 apg, 2.0 spg, 1.5 blocks, 2.0 3FGM/g, and only one has done that stat line in the past 20 seasons (Shane Battier of Duke in 1999-00).
Morgan leads UNI in scoring, rebounding, assists, steals, blocks, 3FGM, and FTM.
MORGAN NETS 1,000 POINTS
Jeremy Morgan became the 41st member of UNI's 1,000 point club at Evansville (1/1).
Morgan has tallied 1,081 career points and ranks No. 31 on UNI's all-time scoring list.
UNI'S 1,000-POINT SCORERS SINCE 2001
Morgan became the 16th Panther to score 1,000 or more points since the start of the 2001 season – the first season that Ben Jacobson joined the coaching staff as an assistant. Jacobson took over the head job in the 2006-07 season.
1,000-Point Scorers Since 2001
Ben Jacobson (2003-06) 1,787 pts.
Seth Tuttle (2011-15) 1,747 pts.
Eric Coleman (2005-08) 1,522 pts.
Kwadzo Ahelegbe (2006-11) 1,329 pts.
Anthony James (2008-13) 1,305 pts.
Grant Stout (2004-07) 1,232 pts.
Deon Mitchell (2011-15) 1,200 pts.
Adam Koch (2006-10) 1,186 pts.
David Gruber (2002-04) 1,116 pts.
Jake Koch (2009-2013) 1,113 pts.
Matt Bohannon (2011-16.) 1,092 pts.
Jeremy Morgan (2013-pres.) 1,081 pts.
Jordan Eglseder (2006-10) 1,066 pts.
Johnny Moran (2008-12) 1,048 pts.
Wes Washpun (2013-16.) 1,035 pts.
Chris Foster (2000-05) 1,027 pts.
MORGAN MOVING UP THE DEFENSIVE CHARTS
Senior guard Jeremy Morgan, who earned a spot on last year's MVC All-Defensive squad, is making his way up the UNI defensive charts in regard to blocked shots and steals.
Morgan ranks No. 2 at UNI in steals (168) and No. 7 in blocked shots (92).
Morgan is looking to become only the second UNI player to tally 100 steals and 100 blocks in his career. The only previous Panther to achieve that feat was Jake Koch, who posted 118 steals and 123 blocks from 2009-2013.
STEALS - UNI (CAREER)
1. Brent Carmichael (1981-83) 180
2. Jeremy Morgan (2013-pres.) 168
3. Nick Nurse (1986-89) 165
4. Andy Woodley (1998-02) 159
5. Ben Jacobson (2002-06) 154
6. Johnny Moran (2008-12) 152
7. Dale Turner (1988-92) 143
8. Robbie Williams (1982-86) 140
9. Brian Carpenter (1992-96) 138
10. Darian DeVries (1994-98) 131
BLOCKED SHOTS - UNI (CAREER)
1. Grant Stout (2004-0) 222
2. Jake Koch (2009-13) 123
3. Jordan Eglseder (2006-10) 120
4. Sean Hawkins (1995-98) 118
5. Eric Coleman (2004-08) 115
6. Seth Tuttle (2011-15) 95
7. Jeremy Morgan (2013-pres.) 92
8. Jason Sims (1993-96) 90
9. Scott Stafford (1984-85) 85
10. Steve Phyfe (1988-90) 66
MORGAN KNOCKS DOWN TRIPLES TOO
Senior guard Jeremy Morgan can also knock down the three-point shot.
Morgan has tallied 151 career three-pointers made to rank No. 9 all-time at UNI.
THREE-POINTERS MADE - UNI (CAREER)
1. Matt Bohannon (2012-16) 268
2. Ben Jacobson (2002-06) 203
3. Johnny Moran (2008-12) 201
Marc Sonnen (2009-13) 201
5. Nick Nurse (1985-89) 170
6. Darian DeVries (1994-98) 166
7. Robbie Sieverding (1998-02) 157
8. Ali Farohkmanesh (2008-10) 152
9. Jeremy Morgan (2013-pres.) 151
10. Maurice Newby (1987-91) 146
FOR STARTERS
UNI has used eight different starting lineups this season in its 19 games.
UNI has had nine different players draw starts this season.
UNI's 2016-17 Starting Lineups
Carlson-McCloud-Morgan-Koch-Ashton (6)
Carlson-McCloud-Morgan-Koch-Lohaus (4)
Carlson-McCloud-Morgan-Koch-Haldeman (2)
Carlson-Morgan-Ashton-Koch-Haldeman (2)
Friedman-McCloud-Morgan-Brown-Haldeman (2)
Carlson-McCloud-Ashton-Koch-Haldeman (1)
Carlson-Friedman-McCloud-Morgan-Ashton (1)
Carlson-Friedman-McCloud-Morgan-Haldeman (1)
3-POINT TALK
UNI has made at least one 3-pointer in 550 straight games – the longest active streak in the MVC.
AMONG THE ELITE
UNI is one of 13 teams to have won at least one game in the NCAA Tournament and accumulate 54 combined wins over the previous two seasons.
The elite list of squads include UNI, Duke, Gonzaga, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, Notre Dame, Oregon, Villanova, Wichita State, Wisconsin and Virginia.
BOOK IT IN THE UPPER HALF
UNI's streak of 13 straight upper-half finishes in the MVC is the league's longest active streak.
NINE OR MORE MVC WINS
The Panthers have won nine or more MVC games in each of the past 13 seasons – also the MVC's longest active streak.
TOP-FOUR FINISHES IN MVC
UNI has finished in the top four of the MVC standings in eight consecutive seasons.
IN THE UPPER HALF
UNI has finished in the upper half of the Missouri Valley Conference's final standings in 13 straight seasons. It is the longest active streak in the league.
Prior to the 2003-04 season, when the current streak began, UNI had finished in the top half of the MVC on two occasions (1993-94 - 5th, 1996-97 - 4th) since joining the league in 1991-92.
13 STRAIGHT YEARS OF 9 OR MORE MVC WINS
UNI has won nine or more MVC games in 13 consecutive seasons - the longest active streak in the league.
Wichita State has the second longest active streak at seven.
UNI in the MVC Since 2003-04
2003-04 - 12-6 (T-2nd)
2004-05 - 11-7 (T-3rd)
2005-06 - 11-7 (T-5th)
2006-07 - 9-9 (5th)
2007-08 - 9-9 (T-5th)
2008-09 - 14-4 (T-1st)
2009-10 - 15-3 (1st)
2010-11 - 10-8 (T-4th)
2011-12 - 9-9 (T-3rd)
2012-13 - 11-7 (3rd)
2013-14 - 10-8 (3rd)
2014-15 - 16-2 (2nd)
2015-16 - 11-7 (T-4th)
EIGHT NCAA TRIPS FOR UNI
UNI made its eighth appearance in the NCAA Tournament last season. The Panthers are 5-8 all-time in the NCAA Tournament.
UNI's All-Time NCAA Tourney Results
1990 - W, 74-71 vs. #3 Missouri
1990 - L, 84-81 vs. #6 Minnesota
2004 - L, 65-60 vs. #3 Georgia Tech
2005 - L, 57-52 vs. #6 Wisconsin
2006 - L, 54-49 vs. #7 Georgetown
2009 - L, 61-56 vs. #5 Purdue
2010 - W, 69-66 vs. #8 UNLV
2010 - W, 69-67 vs. #1 Kansas
2010 - L, 59-52 vs. #5 Michigan State
2015 - W, 71-54 vs. #12 Wyoming
2015 - L, 66-53 vs. #4 Louisville
2016 - W, 75-72 vs. #6 Texas
2016 - L, 92-88 (2OT) vs. #3 Texas A&M
MVC's Dance Partners
Since the 2003-04 season, UNI and Wichita State have made the most appearances in the NCAA Tournament for the Missouri Valley Conference.
The Panthers have made seven NCAA Tournament apperances since the 2003-04 season, while the Shockers have appeared in six NCAA tournaments in the same time frame.
MVC'S NCAA Appearances Since 2004
UNI (7) - 2004, 2005, 2006, 2009, 2010, 2015, 2016
Wichita St. (6) - 2006, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016
Southern Illinois (4) - 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007
Creighton (4) - 2005, 2007, 2012, 2013
Indiana State (1) - 2011
Drake (1) - 2008
Bradley (1) - 2006
20-WIN SEASONS
UNI has had 12 20-win seasons in program history – 10 of those 20-win seasons have come since 2003-04.
WINNING TRADITION IN MCLEOD CENTER
UNI is playing its 11th season in the McLeod Center and the Panthers have made winning a priority in their home venue.
UNI has posted an all-time mark of 129-34 (.791) in games played in the McLeod Center.
UNI secured a school-record 16 home wins in the 2012-13 season.
UNI has posted a trio of perfect home seasons since moving to NCAA Division I. UNI was a perfect 14-0 in both the 1983-84 and 2009-10 seasons and then UNI notched a 15-0 mark at home in 2014-15.
UNI set its home-court win streak of 21 consecutive victories between the 2008-09 and 2010-11 seasons.
The McLeod Center opened in November 2006.
11 HOME WINS IN 9 STRAIGHT YRS
UNI has won 11 or more home games in the McLeod Center in nine consecutive seasons.
UNI's Home Record Since 2007-08
Year Record
2007-08 11-6
2008-09 11-4
2009-10 14-0
2010-11 13-5
2011-12 13-3
2012-13 16-4
2013-14 11-2
2014-15 15-0
2015-16 11-3
2016-17 5-3
PROTECTING THE HOME COURT
UNI has won 11 or more home games in the McLeod Center in nine consecutive seasons.
JAKE RANKS AMONG VALLEY'S ALL-TIME WINNINGEST COACHES
UNI head coach Ben Jacobson ranks No. 6 in the Missouri Valley Confernce history in victories (228).
Jacobson also ranks No. 7 in league history in MVC games only (117).
Henry Iba tops both lists with 486 total wins and 187 league wins.
MVC Coaching Victories
1. Henry P. Iba (Oklahoma State) 486
2. Eddie Hickey (Creighton/St. Louis) 337
3. Dana Altman (Creighton) 327
4. Gregg Marshall (Wichita State) 247
5. Barry Hinson (Missouri State/SIU) 242
6. Ben Jacobson (UNI) 228
7. Rich Herrin (Southern Illinois) 225
8. Ralph Miller (Wichita State) 221
9. Maury John (Drake) 211
10. Joe Stowell (Bradley) 197
MVC Coaching Wins (Conf. Games Only)
1. Henry P. Iba (Oklahoma State) 187
2. Dana Altman (Creighton) 182
3. Eddie Hickey (Creighton/St. Louis) 163
4. Barry Hinson (Missouri State/SIU) 128
5. Dr. F.C. Allen (Kansas) 126
6. Gregg Marshall (Wichita State) 124
7. Ben Jacobson (UNI) 117
8. Rich Herrin (Southern Illinois) 111
9. Jim Molinari (Bradley) 110
10. Maurice John (Drake) 95
UNI MBB IN APR TOP-10 PERCENT
The UNI men's basketball, men's golf, women's golf, women's cross country and women's volleyball teams have been recognized by the NCAA for their latest multi-year Academic Progress Rate (APR) scores. These teams posted multi-year APR scores in the top 10 percent of all squads in their respective sports.
The UNI men's basketball team has been recognized with a perfect APR score (1,000) in each of the last four seasons - the only MVC school to do that in each of the past three years.
The APR provides a real-time look at a team's academic success each semester by tracking the academic progress of each student-athlete on scholarship. The APR accounts for eligibility, retention and graduation and provides a measure of each team's academic performance.
UNI SIGNS PHYFE TO NLI
UNI head men's basketball coach Ben Jacobson announced the signing of Austin Phyfe (Waverly, Iowa/Waverly-Shell Rock HS) to a National Letter-of-Intent to play for the Panthers beginning in 2017-18.
Phyfe (6'9", 235 lbs., Forward) is the No. 2 recruit in the state of Iowa, according to IowaPreps.com. He earned second-team all-state honors from the Iowa Newspaper Association as a junior for head coach Nate Stegge. Phyfe notched third-team all-state accolades as a sophomore. Phyfe is a three-time all-Northeast Iowa Conference pick, including a pair of first-team honors the past two seasons. Phyfe averaged 14.5 points, grabbed 8.4 rebounds and shot 64 percent from the field in leading Waverly-Shell Rock to an 18-6 record in 2015-16. Phyfe scored 13.7 points and grabbed 7.9 rebounds as a sophomore in helping the GoHawks to a 22-3 record and a berth into the state tournament. As a freshman, he helped the GoHawks the state tournament and into the semifinals. Phyfe played AAU for the Iowa Barnstormers.
He is the son of Steve and Lisa Phyfe. His father, Steve, played basketball for the Panthers from 1987-1990. His sister, Aftin, is a member of the UNI swimming and diving team.
UNI TO PLAY IN 2017 BATTLE 4 ATLANTIS
Celebrating its seventh year of elite collegiate tournament play, the 2017 Battle 4 Atlantis will include Villanova, Arizona, Purdue, North Carolina State, Tennessee, Southern Methodist, Western Kentucky and UNI.
The 2017 early season tournament field boasts a combined 16 Final Four appearances and five National Championships between the field. The annual Battle 4 Atlantis once again falls during the Thanksgiving holiday, scheduled to take place November 22-24, 2017. The 12-game, three-day tournament is regarded as one of the most challenging early-season tournaments.
It will mark UNI's second appearance in the Battle 4 Atlantis. UNI also took part in the tournament in the 2012 Battle 4 Atlantis as the Panthers played Louisville, Stanford and Memphis.
RADIO INFORMATION
This year's UNI men's basketball games can be heard on the UNI Sports Radio Network, with KXEL (1540 AM, Waterloo, Iowa) serving as flagship station. Affiliates include KBGG (1700 AM, Des Moines), KGYM (1600 AM, Cedar Rapids), KQCR (98.9 FM, Hampton), KILJ (105.5 FM, Mount Pleasant), KFXE (1160 AM, Decorah-Waukon) and KVFD (1400 AM, Fort Dodge).
Long-time Panthers announcer Gary Rima handles play-by-play duties, while Kevin Boyle serves as analyst. Head coach Ben Jacobson's weekly radio call-in show will air on Thursdays, beginning in December at 6 p.m., live from The Other Place in Cedar Falls.
WEEKLY PRESS LUNCHEONS
UNI head coach Ben Jacobson or a member of his coaching staff will be available at the weekly Press Luncheons held each Monday beginning at noon in the back room of Pepper's Grill and Sports Pub located on 18th Street in Cedar Falls.
FOLLOW THE PANTHERS ON FACEBOOK, TWITTER & YOUTUBE
Fans of UNI Athletics on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram will have access to updates, score recaps and special announcements.
www.facebook.com/UNIAthletics
www.facebook.com/UNIMensBasketball
www.twitter.com/UNIAthletics
www.twittercom/UNIMBB
YOUTUBE
www.youtube.com/UNIAthletics
www.instagram.com/UNIAthletics
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/ Men's BasketballBen Jacobson Postgame Interview - Nov. 7, 2025.
Friday, November 07
UNI Panther Football: The Best Pod of your Day (Episode 12)
Wednesday, November 05
Ben Jacobson Press Conference - Nov. 3, 2025
Monday, November 03
UNI Panther Football: The Best Pod of your Day (Episode 11)
Wednesday, October 29