25. Nebraska (12-2)
Fred Hoiberg has inspired a lot of success since taking over at Nebraska several seasons ago and this looks like another one of those prominent seasons. The Cornhuskers got a really nice win at Creighton back in November and have mostly taken care of business ever since, minus a really rough performance in East Lansing against Michigan State. Considering their inclusion in the rankings, you can tell theyre’ coming off another pretty good week.
Back home from the Diamond Head Classic, the Cornhuskers won in style in their final nonconference game, taking care of Southern 77-43. Connor Essegian stood out with 20 points and 6 rebounds off the bench in the win. Saturday was far more enthralling as Nebraska won 66-58 at home over a ranked UCLA squad. Brice Williams led with 16 points and 6 rebounds, Andrew Morgan added 12 points off the bench, and the Cornhuskers used tough defense to sink the Bruins.
Now winners of six straight games, the Cornhuskers once again proved that they can hang in these tough games, now owning notable wins over Creighton, Indiana, and UCLA. Nebraska won the Diamond Head Classic and has shown little signs of issue back on the mainland. They’ve won over a pair of very solid Big Ten teams at home but take their show on the road next week, heading out for tough matchups at Iowa and Purdue.