CEDAR FALLS, Iowa (Interstat) — Northern Iowa used a strong first quarter to build a lead it never relinquished in a 68-54 women’s basketball victory over Illinois State on Wednesday night at McLeod Center.

The Panthers opened a 21-7 lead after the first quarter and maintained a double-digit advantage for most of the game. Trista Fayta led the Redbirds with 19 points and seven assists. Northern Iowa had a balanced attack, with Jenna Twedt scoring 16 points and Bri Robinson adding 15.

Northern Iowa improved to 3-4 overall, while Illinois State fell to 4-5.