Johan Molin put Panthers ahead with the only goal of the first period but Bison levelled through Brad Cruikshank.

Panthers created a host of chances and Kevin Bergin's 18th goal of the season made it 2-1 only for Mikko Purontakanen to tie the scores in the third period.

Both sides had powerplay chances to win but Danny Stewart hit the vital goal as the shootout went to sudden death.

Report: Nottingham 2-3 Basingstoke

Interview: Panthers coach Mike Ellis

It's a matter of making sure we sharpen up and score our chances Mike Ellis

But while Stewart was the matchwinner, Bison owe goaltender Curtis Cruickshank a huge debt of gratitude.

The keeper turned away 58 of 60 shots fired on him by the home side.

Panthers coach Mike Ellis was not upset by his team's display but said they need to be more clinical in front of goal.

He told BBC Radio Nottingham: "I thought we played some good hockey we got the puck to the net a lot and we won a lot of battles and had loads of possession.

"But it's a matter of making sure we sharpen up and score our chances."