UPDATE: In a thrilling showdown, the No. 13 Nebraska Cornhuskers pulled off a stunning upset against No. 9 Michigan State, winning 58-56 on December 1, 2023. This victory keeps Nebraska undefeated at 14-0 and marks their 18th consecutive win, the longest active streak in Division I basketball.
With just 1:51 left on the clock, Rienk Mast hit a pivotal 3-pointer, sealing the deal for the Cornhuskers. Fans erupted in celebration as they rushed the court following the final buzzer, marking Nebraska’s first home win in an AP-ranked matchup since 1991 against Kansas.
This game, touted as a crucial test for Nebraska—historically the only power-conference team yet to win an NCAA tournament game—showed the Cornhuskers can rise to the occasion. The matchup was the lowest-scoring game of the season for both teams, highlighting intense defensive efforts.
The contest turned into a battle of long-range shooting, with the 6-foot-10 Mast leading the charge. He made five of his first seven attempts from beyond the arc, finishing with 19 points. Meanwhile, Michigan State’s Jaxon Kohler matched him with a career-high of five 3-pointers, also scoring 19 points.
Support came from Pryce Sandfort and Jamarques Lawrence, adding 13 and 12 points respectively for the Huskers. For the Spartans, Jeremy Fears Jr. contributed 14 points, while Kur Teng added 12 points in place of the ill Divine Ugochukwu.
Despite their efforts, Michigan State struggled in the second half, shooting only 6-of-24 from the field and committing 19 turnovers, their highest since facing Nebraska four years ago. With just 0.7 seconds left, Carson Cooper had a chance to tie the game but missed the crucial first free throw, allowing Nebraska to secure the rebound and conclude the game.
As the season progresses, the Cornhuskers remain one of only six undefeated teams in Division I, igniting hopes for their first-ever NCAA tournament victory. This win serves as a significant milestone in their journey, showcasing their growth and resilience on the court.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as Nebraska aims to extend its winning streak in upcoming matchups. For now, the Cornhuskers have proven they can compete with the best, and their electrifying victory over Michigan State is sure to make waves across the college basketball landscape.
