UNI Trounces Drake in Men's Basketball

Former Panther star AJ Green watched as Tristan Smith, Will Hornseth, and Max Weisbrod led UNI to victory.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Northern Iowa's men's basketball team crushed in-state rival Drake 86-62 on Sunday, with former Panther star AJ Green in attendance. Tristan Smith and Will Hornseth dominated inside, while Max Weisbrod was lights out from 3-point range to lead the Panthers to the lopsided victory.

Why it matters

This win continues UNI's strong season and keeps them in contention for a top seed in the upcoming conference tournament. The presence of former star AJ Green also highlights the program's proud history and ability to develop talent.

The details

Northern Iowa's frontcourt duo of Tristan Smith and Will Hornseth controlled the paint, while sharpshooter Max Weisbrod caught fire from beyond the arc to power the Panthers' offensive onslaught against Drake.

  • The game took place on Sunday, February 16, 2026.

The players

Tristan Smith

A key member of the Northern Iowa frontcourt who dominated the interior against Drake.

Will Hornseth

Paired with Tristan Smith to form a formidable presence in the paint for the Panthers.

Max Weisbrod

The sharp-shooting guard for Northern Iowa who caught fire from 3-point range in the win.

AJ Green

A former star player for the Northern Iowa Panthers who was in attendance to watch the current team's victory.

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What they’re saying

“It was great to see the team play so well, especially with AJ Green here to support them. The guys really fed off the energy in the building.”

— Ben Jacobson, Northern Iowa Head Coach (University of Northern Iowa Athletics)

The takeaway

Northern Iowa's dominant performance over in-state rival Drake, led by strong interior play and hot shooting, showcases the program's continued excellence and ability to attract support from its proud alumni like AJ Green.