Northern Iowa Panthers Defeat Drake Bulldogs in Close Conference Matchup

Panthers' defense stifles Bulldogs' high-powered offense in 72-65 victory

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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In a key Missouri Valley Conference matchup, the Northern Iowa Panthers defeated the Drake Bulldogs 72-65 on Sunday, February 15th. The Panthers' stifling defense was able to limit the Bulldogs' high-scoring offense, led by guard Jalen Quinn, who entered the game averaging 19.8 points per game. Northern Iowa's Trey Campbell controlled the game with 98 assists and 46 steals on the season, helping the Panthers improve to 16-10 overall and 8-7 in conference play.

Why it matters

This victory keeps Northern Iowa in the hunt for a top spot in the MVC standings, while Drake's recent struggles have dropped them to 12-15 overall and 6-10 in conference. The game highlighted the contrasting styles of the two teams, with Northern Iowa's defense-first approach going up against Drake's high-powered, perimeter-oriented offense.

The details

Northern Iowa's defense was the key to the game, limiting Drake to just 65 points. The Panthers held the Bulldogs to 27.6% shooting from three-point range, well below Drake's season average of 44.9%. Offensively, Northern Iowa was led by Trey Campbell's all-around performance, while Leon Bond III and Will Hornseth provided scoring and rebounding support. For Drake, Jalen Quinn had a team-high 19 points, but the Bulldogs struggled to get consistent production from their other top scorers, Eli Shetlar and Andrew Alia.

  • The game was played on Sunday, February 15, 2026.

The players

Trey Campbell

Northern Iowa's starting guard, who controls the game with 98 assists and 46 steals on the season.

Jalen Quinn

Drake's leading scorer, averaging 19.8 points per game with a 56.9% true shooting percentage.

Eli Shetlar

Drake's sharp-shooting forward, who has made 40.9% of his 149 three-point attempts this season.

Andrew Alia

Drake's second-unit guard, who is shooting 42.9% from three-point range.

Okku Federiko

Drake's starting center, who provides interior defense with 1.1 blocks per game and facilitates the offense with 77 assists against 43 turnovers.

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What they’re saying

“We must find a way to slow down their perimeter shooters and force them to beat us inside. Our defense has been the key to our success all season, and we'll need another strong effort to come away with the win today.”

— Trey Campbell, Northern Iowa Guard (draftkings.com)

What’s next

Northern Iowa will look to build on this victory as they continue their push for a top spot in the MVC standings, while Drake will try to regroup and end their recent skid.

The takeaway

This game highlighted the contrasting styles of the two teams, with Northern Iowa's stifling defense proving to be the difference against Drake's high-powered, perimeter-oriented offense. The Panthers' ability to limit the Bulldogs' three-point shooting was crucial in securing the victory and keeping them in the hunt for a conference title.