CEDAR FALLS (KWWL) -
Anthony James scored 19 points as UNI overcame an 11 point first half deficit to defeat Illinois State 80-72 on Saturday night. The win secured the #3 seed for the Panthers in this week's Missouri Valley tournament.
Illinois State started the game off strong leading UNI 19-8 early in the first half. UNI outscored the Redbirds 31-13 to lead 39-32 at the half.
Marc Sonnen powered the Panthers in the second half. Sonnen hit 5 of his 6 three pointers in the final 20 minutes. The senior finished with 18 points in the game.
UNI will meet Illinois State in the MVC quarterfinals Friday night at 8:35 PM.