Team Overview
When it comes to college basketball, the matchups between powerhouse programs and emerging teams are always a treat to watch. One such clash is the annual battle between the University of Northern Iowa (UNI) and the University of South Florida (USF). Both teams have their own unique strengths and styles, making for a thrilling and unpredictable game every time they meet.
University of Northern Iowa
Based in Cedar Falls, Iowa, the University of Northern Iowa (UNI) is a public university known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life. The UNI Panthers have a storied basketball history, with multiple conference championships and a national championship appearance in 2014. The team plays in the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC), which is known for its competitive nature and strong tradition.
The Panthers are known for their balanced scoring and strong defense. They have a reputation for playing tough, physical basketball and have a history of producing quality players who go on to have successful careers in the NBA or overseas. Some notable alumni include Nate Robinson, who won the NBA Slam Dunk Contest in 2006, and Alex Poythress, who played for the Kentucky Wildcats before being drafted by the Boston Celtics.
University of South Florida
On the other side of the court, the University of South Florida (USF) is a public research university located in Tampa, Florida. The Bulls have been a member of the American Athletic Conference (AAC) since 2013 and have made a name for themselves as a competitive basketball program. USF has a rich history of success, including a Final Four appearance in 2006 and a national championship runner-up finish in 2007.
The Bulls play a fast-paced, up-tempo style of basketball, which has been a hallmark of their program for years. They rely on a strong perimeter game and have a reputation for being one of the best shooting teams in the country. Some notable alumni include NBA players like Al Horford, who was drafted by the Atlanta Hawks in 2007, and Cory Joseph, who was drafted by the Toronto Raptors in 2011.
Head Coaches
The head coaches of both teams have played significant roles in shaping their programs’ success. On the UNI side, Ben Jacobson has been the head coach since 2007, leading the team to multiple MVC championships and an appearance in the NCAA Tournament. Jacobson is known for his defensive-minded approach and ability to develop players.
On the USF side, Mark Few has been the head coach since 2002, leading the Bulls to their Final Four appearance and multiple AAC championships. Few is known for his offensive-minded style and ability to recruit top talent. His teams have consistently been among the best in the country, both offensively and defensively.
Recent Matchups
In recent years, the matchups between UNI and USF have been highly competitive. Here’s a look at some of their recent games:
| Date | Score | Location | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| November 29, 2019 | 68-65 | USF | USF |
| December 3, 2020 | 81-78 | UNI | UNI |
| February 6, 2021 | 72-69 | USF | USF |
| January 8, 2022 | 85-82 | UNI | UNI |
Key Players
As the 2022-2023 season approaches, both teams have key players who will be crucial to their success. Here’s a look at some of the standouts:
University of Northern Iowa
- Payton Tisdale – A transfer from the University of Kansas, Tisdale is expected to be a major offensive threat for the Panthers.
- Samson Okoro – A
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