With Lengthy Losing Streak Over, Nebraska Takes on No. 16 Oregon
After finally ending a six-game losing streak, Nebraska now faces an angry No. 16 Oregon squad that suffered an embarrassing 26-point loss in its last outing.
With both teams struggling in recent weeks, this Big Ten vs. Pac-12 clash presents an opportunity for one to build momentum.
Nebraska’s Confidence Boost After Upsetting Illinois
The Cornhuskers (13-8, 3-7 Big Ten) delivered a much-needed 80-74 overtime win over No. 18 Illinois on Thursday, marking their first victory since January 4.
Key Takeaways from Nebraska’s Win:
- Never trailed in the game
- Forced 17 turnovers while committing just six
- Brice Williams scored 27 points, including eight in overtime
“Winning sure as hell beats losing,” said Nebraska coach Fred Hoiberg. However, he quickly emphasized the need to stay focused ahead of the Oregon matchup.
“If we don’t, it’s not going to be pretty,” Hoiberg warned.
Key Cornhuskers to Watch:
- Brice Williams (18.6 PPG) – Nebraska’s go-to scorer
- Connor Essegian – Leads the team with 53 made three-pointers
- Juwan Gary (12.2 PPG, 6.2 RPG) – A crucial two-way player
Oregon Needs a Strong Response After Blowout Loss
The Ducks (16-5, 5-5 Pac-12) were dominated 78-52 by UCLA on Thursday, scoring their fewest points of the season and failing to lead at any point.
Oregon’s Biggest Issues vs. UCLA:
- Four for 23 from three-point range
- Zero blocked shots, just three steals
- Allowed UCLA to shoot 47.8 percent from deep
Coach Dana Altman didn’t hold back:
“It’s a poorly coached team. I have to put that on myself.”
Key Ducks to Watch:
- Nate Bittle (12.9 PPG, 7.4 RPG) – Team’s top scorer and rebounder
- Jackson Shelstad (12.1 PPG) – Reliable offensive contributor
- TJ Bamba (10.4 PPG) – Provides backcourt scoring
Game Outlook: Will Nebraska or Oregon Gain Momentum?
Both teams need a win to turn their seasons around, but Oregon is playing at home and will be motivated to bounce back.
Can Nebraska keep up its defensive intensity and upset the Ducks? Or will Oregon clean up its mistakes and reassert its dominance?