UPDATE: In a thrilling showdown, the No. 13 Nebraska Cornhuskers stunned No. 9 Michigan State with a nail-biting 58-56 victory on December 8, 2023. This marks Nebraska’s 18th consecutive win, extending their unbeaten record to 14-0 and solidifying their place as the only power-conference team yet to win an NCAA tournament game.
With just 1:51 remaining on the clock, Rienk Mast delivered a decisive tiebreaking 3-pointer, finishing the night with 19 points. The electrifying atmosphere drew fans onto the court as the Cornhuskers celebrated their first home win in an AP-ranked matchup since 1991 against Kansas. This victory is not only significant for the team but also a historic moment for the program.
The game, described as the lowest-scoring contest of the season for both teams, proved to be a fierce battle dominated by big men shooting from beyond the arc. Mast’s performance included five successful three-pointers, while Michigan State’s Jaxon Kohler matched him with a career-high five threes, also scoring 19 points.
The second half proved challenging for the Spartans, who struggled with shooting, finishing just 6-of-24 from the field and committing 19 turnovers—the most they’ve had since facing Nebraska four years ago. Despite a valiant effort, Michigan State could not regain control of the game after Mast’s clutch shot.
As the clock wound down, the Spartans found themselves in a position to tie with 0.7 seconds left when Carson Cooper was fouled. However, his first free throw missed the mark, and Nebraska secured the rebound after he intentionally missed the second attempt, sealing their victory.
The Cornhuskers now join an exclusive group of six undefeated teams in Division I basketball, showcasing their determination and resilience in this pivotal moment of the season. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly watching to see how far Nebraska can carry this momentum into the NCAA tournament.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Nebraska as they aim to continue their historic winning streak and prove their mettle in the competitive landscape of college basketball.