The UNI Panthers try to accomplish something they have not done in a decade and that is win at Southern Illinois. At 6-2, The Panthers have sole possession of the Valley lead and beat the Salukis 66-61 in Cedar Falls back on January sixth.

UNI coach Ben Jacobson says they are a hard team to play against because of their experience and their toughness. Jacobson says they just hope that it is a close game so they have a chance to fight right down to the wire.

The Salukis are 6-3 in the league race and have won 44 of their last 45 Valley home games. Jacobson says the Salukis play with great confidence at home and away, but he says you can see the confidence in their play at home.

UNI has played well on the road and has already posted wins at Missouri State and Wichita State. Jacobson says that should give his team the confidence to go in an play well. Southern Illinois coach Chris Lowery says the Panthers are running more than they have in previous years. Lowery says they take advantage of the transition and have the players to do that.