The Northern Iowa men will look for their third straight victory Monday night with a visit to Murray State. The Panthers are 7-6 in the Missouri Valley after Friday night’s win over Bradley. Senior forward Tristan Smith return from a hip injury and played eight minutes in Friday’s win.

That’s UNI coach Ben Jacobson. The Panthers have been playing well on defense and that will be a key against Murray State and Thursday night at Valley leader Belmont.

Jascobson says the Panther’s better play as of late is a result of improved health.

Jacobson says the Panthers have battled hard through adversity.

UNI senior guard Ben Schwieger says the Panthers are hoping to build even more momentum.

Schwieger says good defense begins on the perimeter.

Murray State is second in the Valley race with a record of 10-4 and the Racers lost in Cedar Falls in late January.