The No. 7 Nebraska men’s basketball team continued its impressive run, defeating the University of Washington 76-66 on Wednesday night. With this victory, Nebraska improved its record to 19-0 overall and 8-0 in the Big Ten Conference, extending its remarkable winning streak to 23 games dating back to last season, the best in the nation.
Pryce Sandfort led the Huskers with a commanding performance, scoring 23 points. This marked his third consecutive game with at least 20 points, and it was his eighth such game of the season. Sam Hoiberg also contributed significantly, adding 14 points along with four assists and seven rebounds. Other key players included Rienk Mast, who scored 12 points, and Jamarques Lawrence with 11 points, underscoring Nebraska’s depth as they navigated through the competition. Notably, their current 8-0 conference start is the best seen by the program since the 1965-66 season.
Nebraska exhibited strong shooting skills, hitting 50.9 percent from the field, including an impressive 11-of-29 from behind the arc, marking the third consecutive game in which they have shot 50 percent or better. The Huskers initially took control of the game with an early run, with Mast playing a pivotal role by scoring all seven of his first-half points in a quick three-minute span, helping Nebraska establish a 19-13 lead.
Although Washington narrowed the gap to 19-17, Sandfort’s strong play, including eight points during a 13-2 run, widened Nebraska’s lead to 32-19. Despite Washington’s attempts to close the score, Nebraska maintained their advantage, ending the first half with a 41-28 lead thanks to Hoiberg’s late five-point effort.
In the second half, Hannes Steinbach of Washington, who finished with a double-double of 21 points and 12 rebounds, made a push to bring his team back into contention. However, key three-pointers by Sandfort and Mast expanded Nebraska’s lead to 61-44 midway through the second half, securing a comfortable margin.
Nebraska will look to continue its success this Saturday, January 24th, as they face Minnesota. The game is scheduled to tip off at 11 a.m. CT and will be broadcast live on FS1, with audio coverage provided through the Huskers Radio Network and the Huskers app.
The continued success of the Nebraska basketball team not only showcases their talent but also solidifies their position as a formidable contender in college basketball this season, generating excitement among fans and alumni.
