Murray State Advances to MVC Championship Game

Racers pull away late to defeat Northern Iowa 72-59

Mar. 15, 2026 at 4:35am

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Murray State used a strong fourth quarter performance to defeat Northern Iowa 72-59 and advance to the Missouri Valley Conference championship game. The Racers were led by Keslyn Secrist's 22 points, including three straight 3-pointers in the fourth quarter that sealed the win. Murray State will face Evansville in the title game on Sunday.

Why it matters

This win keeps Murray State's hopes alive for an NCAA Tournament bid, as the Racers look to win the MVC championship and earn an automatic bid. Northern Iowa's upset bid fell short, but the Panthers had a strong season overall, finishing 18-14.

The details

Murray State led by as many as 18 points in the second half before Northern Iowa stormed back to take the lead in the third quarter. But the Racers responded with key 3-pointers from Halli Poock and Secrist to regain control. Murray State's fast-break offense and ability to limit turnovers were crucial factors in the win.

  • The game was played on Saturday afternoon at Xtream Arena in Coralville, Iowa.
  • Murray State and Northern Iowa will play in the MVC championship game on Sunday at 1 p.m.

The players

Keslyn Secrist

A Virginia native who led Murray State with 22 points, including four 3-pointers.

Haven Ford

Teammate of Secrist who added 19 points on 6-of-12 shooting for Murray State.

Abby Tuttle

Came off the bench to spark Northern Iowa's third-quarter comeback, scoring 14 points.

Elise Jaeger

Recorded three steals in the third quarter to help Northern Iowa take the lead.

Jenna Twedt

Led Northern Iowa with 12 points in the losing effort.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

Murray State will play Evansville in the MVC championship game on Sunday at 1 p.m. The winner will earn an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.

The takeaway

Murray State's ability to respond to Northern Iowa's comeback and pull away late shows the Racers' resilience and experience. They will be a tough out in the NCAA Tournament if they can win the MVC title.