Coming off of a Missouri Valley Conference title game appearance, the expectations for the 2019-20 UNI men’s basketball team remain at a high standard as per usual.

“The goals of being in the hunt for a [MVC] championship, playing in the NCAA Tournament and winning NCAA Tournament games; these guys have the same goals,” head coach Ben Jacobson said.

The Panthers, who are third in the MVC preseason poll, are looking to build off of last year’s experience heading into this season.

“Our team went through the roller coaster and then some last year,” Jacobson said.  “Our team is much better because of those experiences.”

The team returns 10 players from last season, including six seniors, along with a talented seven-man freshman recruiting class.

Coach Jacobson expects point guard A.J. Green, the All-MVC preseason first team selection, to step up in his second year after averaging 15 points per game as a true freshman.

“I’ve really been proud of him and have seen [him improve] in terms of his communication and leadership,” Jacobson said.

The Cedar Falls native looks to lead the Panthers backed by a strong work ethic.

“He’s always asking that question of himself, ‘what do I need to do to get better?,’” Jacobson said.  “That’s just the type of young guy that he is. It’s awesome to see for him individually.  It’s also great for our program.”

Another player to watch is junior center Austin Phyfe, who returns after he missed most of last season with a season-ending illness.  The 6-foot-9, 235-pound center looks to provide a physical presence inside.

“Austin is doing well, “Jacobson said.  “He’s had a really good stretch here […] physically he’s able to bring some different things to the mix.”

A starting backcourt of Green and Spencer Haldeman paired with Trae Berhow, Isaiah Brown and Phyfe gives the Panthers a strong starting five.  The Purple and Gold also have solid depth with experienced players Tywhon Pickford, Luke McDonnell, Justin Dahl, Shandon Goldman and Lincoln Conrey.

This season also brings a flare of retro with the return of Marc Sonnen as a video coordinator.

“A member of that team that went into the Hall of Fame here this fall,” Jacobson said.  “Great to have him back with us and he was a terrific player for us.  He is off to a really good start.”

UNI opens the season at home against Old Dominion on Tuesday, Nov. 5 at 7 p.m.