CEDAR FALLS, Iowa — Northern Iowa managed to clinch a close victory against Illinois State, winning 68-65 on Saturday night, thanks in large part to Tytan Anderson’s impressive performance. Anderson contributed significantly to the win, scoring 18 points and sealing the game with a crucial layup just 47 seconds before the final buzzer.

Alongside Anderson’s standout play, he also pulled down eight rebounds, helping the Panthers improve to a record of 16-9 overall, with a 10-4 standing in the Missouri Valley Conference. Trey Campbell supported the team’s efforts, contributing 12 points, including two three-pointers, having gone 4 for 9 from the field. Additionally, Jacob Hutson added 11 points, hitting four shots from the field and making two free throws.

The Redbirds of Illinois State, now at 15-10 and 7-7 in conference play, were led by Johnny Kinziger, who made an impressive impact with 16 points, nine rebounds, and three steals. Caden Boser supported the team with 10 points, while Jordan Davis chipped in with eight points of his own.

Northern Iowa struggled in the first half, trailing at halftime with a score of 36-32. Will Hornseth played a key role in the first half with nine points, but it was Anderson who took over in the second half, scoring 12 of his total points, including the decisive shot in the closing moments of the game.