The team, which played in the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC), was led by third-year head coach Ben Jacobson.

On January 31, 2009, the Panthers tied a school record for the most consecutive wins with a 61–57 victory over Indians State.

On February 2, 2008, Northern Iowa received 1 point in the AP Top 25 poll which had them ranked 45th.

[1] On March 9, 2008, Northern Iowa received 3 points in the AP Top 25 poll which had them ranked T-37th.

[2] Note: Flags indicate national team eligibility at FIBA sanctioned events.