CEDAR FALLS – The Panthers will face their oldest and newest foes in the same weekend when they defend their perfect 9-0 record against Iowa State (8-3 overall, 1-2 Big 12) and Kent State in the West Gym Saturday and Sunday.
UNI’s oldest series that is still active dates back to 1924 with Iowa State. The Cyclones lead the series 55-16. UNI’s last win over ISU in 2004 was also the last win the Panthers had over a top 10 team prior to this season. They edged out the Cyclones 22-21. However, ISU has won the last 10 meetings, including last year’s matchup.
With UNI implementing its first Mid-American Conference season, this will be the first time the Panthers have faced the Golden Flashes of Kent State in a dual. Kent State and Central Michigan are tied for the fourth in the MAC rankings, while UNI is the conference favorite.
Second-ranked Cyclone Kyven Gadson is currently riding a 25-match dual win streak dating back to Nov. 25, 2012. The streak features six pins and six major decisions.
UNI has four wins over top-25 opponents in the NWCA/USA Today/AWN Coaches Poll: No. 9 Missouri, No. 10 Oklahoma, No. 15 Wisconsin and No. 20 North Dakota State.
