Northern Iowa Basketball: 2021-22 preview and outlook for Panthers

Northern Iowa Basketball: 2021-22 season preview and outlook for Panthers

ST. LOUIS, MO - MARCH 10: Head coach Ben Jacobson of the Northern Iowa Panthers reacts to a play on the court against the Bradley Braves during the final game of the MVC Basketball Tournament at the Enterprise Center on March 10, 2019 in St. Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images) /

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Northern Iowa Basketball Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /

2021-22 outlook for Northern Iowa Basketball

The deep, talented, and veteran team should contend for the Valley title. Loyola Chicago, Missouri State, Drake, and UNI will make the Valley race a four-team battle royale. All four teams have great depth and experience with elite-level talent.

Green’s health is the central issue for the Panthers. If his hips are fine, then the Panthers should shine. The development of Carter, Born, and the reemerging of Phyfe are also huge factors. Jacobson’s teams typically improve as the season wears on, so watch for UNI to be playing its best basketball during the Valley season

Jacobson is the best coach in the league and his team should be battling for a title during the final weeks of the season. Two of the team’s final three games are home contests against Missouri State and Loyola Chicago.

Next. Preseason MVC rankings for 2021-22. dark

Valley schedule makers have set the stage for some outstanding conference drama.