The U-N-I Panthers opened the Missouri Valley Conference race with a 76-65 win over Bradley. U-N-I built an 18 point first half lead then held off a second half rally by Bradley in Cedar Falls.

Bradley got as close as four down the stretch, but U-N-I hit their free throws. Grant Stout led the Panthers with 17 points while Eric Coleman had a double-double of 16 points and 14 rebounds.

The Panthers are 10-2 and visit 15th ranked Wichita State on Saturday.