Nebraska Triumphs Over No. 9 Michigan State

Nebraska achieved a significant victory over No. 9 Michigan State with a final score of 58-56. This triumph, which took place on January 3, 2026, marks a historic moment for the Nebraska men’s basketball program, as it secured their best start in history with an impressive record of 14-0.

Nebraska’s Historic Upset

The matchup saw Nebraska facing off against a highly ranked opponent, showcasing their development under coach Fred Hoiberg. Michigan State initially entered the game as slight favorites, but the atmosphere at Pinnacle Bank Arena played a crucial role in favoring the home team.

Defensive Prowess

Both Nebraska and Michigan State struggled offensively, with each team shooting below 35%. Nebraska’s defense, however, proved to be the deciding factor, holding the Spartans to their lowest scoring output this season: just 56 points.

• Nebraska’s defensive strategy led to Michigan State committing 19 turnovers, a season high for the Spartans.
• Junior guard Pryce Sandfort emphasized the importance of the team’s defensive effort in his postgame remarks, pointing to their active hands and hustle.

Key Contributions

Senior forward Rienk Mast was instrumental in the victory, leading the team with 19 points. Despite their challenges in shooting, the Nebraska squad exhibited composure, particularly during pivotal moments in the game.

Postgame Reflections

Coach Tom Izzo of Michigan State acknowledged the intensity of the game’s environment and the challenges presented by Nebraska’s defensive approach. He remarked on the necessity of minimizing mistakes against strong teams.

Coach Hoiberg praised his team for their resilience. “We knew they would make a run,” he stated, reinforcing the idea of a total team effort in overcoming the high-pressure situation.

Looking Ahead

The Nebraska Cornhuskers are set to face Ohio State next. As they prepare for this matchup, their confidence is bolstered by this recent victory against a ranked opponent. Fans eagerly anticipate how the team will carry this momentum into future games.