Panthers head to Milwaukee for NCAA tourney first round

The UNI Panthers open the N-C-A-A Tournament Friday in Milwaukee against Georgia Tech. The Panthers are 21-9 after winning the Missouri Valley Conference Tournament and coach Greg McDermott thought his team could be seeded as high as 12th in their regional. They are seeded 14th. McDermott says anybody they’d play as a 14th seed is going to be good, so he says it’s probably worth it to be dropped a seed or two to play in Milwaukee, which is closer to home.Senior forward Matt Schniederman says the players were anxious to discover their opponent and destination. He says it was nerve wracking as all the midwest spots started disappearing and it looked like they’d be sent a long way from their fans.Senior center David Gruber does not mind the 14th seed because it will allow UNI fans to make the trip. He says the fans have been unbelievable in their support, so hopefully they can share in the fun in Milwaukee. Last year Brooks McKowen was playing in the state tournament. As a freshman guard for the Panthers he will be part of the big dance. He says it’s always been one of his dreams.The time for Friday’s game will be set on Wednesday.