The Nebraska men’s basketball team has made headlines by achieving a remarkable 16-0 record this season, soaring to a No. 8 national ranking. This success comes despite the team often being viewed as underdogs. Their journey this year has included impressive comebacks and close victories, showcasing both resilience and skill.
After a strong start, Nebraska faced their first significant challenge in a neutral-site game against Oklahoma. Initially trailing by 16 points, the Huskers rallied to secure a thrilling 105-99 victory in Sioux Falls. Following this, they entered a stretch of games where they were expected to win but did so with narrow margins. Victories against Kansas State (by one point), Winthrop (by seven), and USC-Upstate (by nine) highlighted their ability to overcome early deficits. In the matchup against USC-Upstate, the Huskers found themselves down by 12 points before regrouping to maintain their unbeaten streak.
Nebraska’s resolve was on full display during a recent game against Indiana, where they once again faced a 16-point deficit. The Huskers managed to claw their way back, ultimately winning 83-77, marking their 20th consecutive victory dating back to last season. Despite being ranked No. 10 at the time, Indiana was favored to hand Nebraska their first loss, but the Huskers proved their mettle once again.
Head coach Fred Hoiberg praised his team’s composure throughout the season. “They pushed the lead up to 16, and there was just no panic with this group,” he stated. The ability to remain calm and focused under pressure has been a defining characteristic of this season’s team.
Reflecting on their journey, senior guard Jamarques Lawrence emphasized the team’s chemistry, stating, “We talk to each other about that and just try to find the right shot for anybody.” In the game against Indiana, Lawrence led the team with 27 points, significantly contributing to their success. This season, Nebraska’s offense has become increasingly versatile, bolstered by the return of key players like Rienk Mast and the addition of transfer Pryce Sandfort.
As Nebraska continues to gain momentum, they have shifted from being the hunters to the hunted. This transition has not gone unnoticed, as their next opponent, Oregon, will be looking to capitalize on any potential weaknesses. Currently, Nebraska is favored by 10.5 points against Oregon, highlighting the expectations surrounding the team.
The Huskers’ upcoming schedule includes challenging matchups, including a road game against Northwestern and a home game against Minnesota. Coach Hoiberg has emphasized the importance of maintaining focus despite the growing attention on the team. “We have to bounce back from the emotional wins,” he remarked, underscoring the need for consistent performance.
As they prepare for Oregon, the Nebraska squad is determined to stay grounded. “There’s no easy game in the Big Ten,” said junior guard Cale Jacobsen, reflecting the competitive nature of the conference. This mindset will be crucial as they face Oregon, which is entering a demanding stretch of games against top-ranked opponents.
With a blend of experience and talent, Nebraska is poised to continue their impressive run. The team’s ability to respond to adversity has become a hallmark of their season. As they advance, both fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if they can maintain their perfect record and make a deep impact in the Big Ten and beyond.
