1. Athletic Hall of Fame
The UNI Athletic Hall of Fame between the McLeod Center and the UNI-Dome is a must-see for any college sports fan. The Hall of Fame contains a slew of trophies won by the Panthers over the years including an ESPY Award won by the school in 2010 for “Best Upset.” Take some time before the game to see the Hall of Fame and all it has to offer.
2. Student Section
The student section at a UNI basketball game is phenomenal as it’s packed to the gills with die hard fans. UNI students go all out to support their team and they even started the famous Interlude Dance back in 2011. Enjoy the atmosphere provided by the UNI students during your trip to Cedar Rapids.
3. Pep Band
The students aren’t the only ones who make lots of noise at Panthers games. The pep band also puts on an incredible display that you won’t soon forget. Whether you like traditional school songs or modern pop songs, you’ll enjoy the pep band’s performance at a UNI game.
4. Iowa Big Four Classic
Each year Northern Iowa squares off against in-state rivals Iowa or Iowa State during the Iowa Big Four Classic. The opponent alternates each year, but you won’t want to miss it when the Panthers get the opportunity to knock-off one of the big boys in the state. Get your tickets to the Iowa Big Four Classic to see the Panthers take on Iowa or Iowa State.
5. Banners
Hanging above the court are banners celebrating the Panthers basketball program’s many accomplishments from over the years. The banners honor all of the best teams in Panthers basketball history including the 2010 team’s Sweet Sixteen appearance making them a can’t miss for any college hoops fan.
6. Cheerleaders
The UNI cheerleaders cheers and routines are a big part of any Panthers basketball game, so join in the cheers to show off your UNI pride. Stay in your seat when the cheerleaders take the court as you won’t want to miss these talented performers.
7. Northern Iowa-Drake Rivalry
Northern Iowa has a fierce rivalry with Iowa-based Missouri Valley Conference foes Drake. There are lots of bragging rights as well as games in the standings on the line when these two meet, so don’t miss it when the Panthers and Bulldogs battle it out on the hardwood.
