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Huskers Aim for Sweet 16 Repeat in 2026-27
8 Sep
Summary
- Pryce Sandfort returns as senior after leading team in scoring.
- Braden Frager, Big Ten Sixth Man of the Year, is back for Nebraska.
- Tough non-conference schedule features Creighton, Missouri, and more.
The Nebraska Cornhuskers basketball team is gearing up for a promising 2026-27 season, aiming to replicate their past NCAA Tournament success. Senior guard Pryce Sandfort returns to lead the team after averaging 18.1 points per game last season. He is joined by sophomore Braden Frager, who earned Big Ten Sixth Man of the Year honors as a freshman. Their offensive firepower, bolstered by a healthy Connor Essegian, creates a formidable shooting trio.
Key frontcourt additions include 7-foot-2 freshman Leo Curtis, expected to fill the void left by Rienk Mast, and transfers Damon Wilkinson and Sam Orme. Freshman Colin Rice is the top incoming recruit, while San Diego State transfer Taj DeGourville will enhance ball-handling duties. The roster features a blend of returning players and promising newcomers.
Nebraska's 2026-27 schedule presents significant challenges, including exhibition games against Saint Louis and BYU, followed by a home opener against Le Moyne. Non-conference play features tough opponents like Providence, Boise State, and Butler, along with traditional rivalries against Creighton and Missouri. Conference play will test the Huskers as they aim to improve on last season's top-four Big Ten finish, with crucial matchups against Michigan State, Iowa, and Indiana.
With a challenging schedule and a talented roster featuring returning stars and key additions, Fred Hoiberg's Cornhuskers appear well-positioned for success. The team's depth and proven performance suggest they have the capability to contend for a high ranking in the Big Ten and make another deep run in the NCAA Tournament.
