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Nebraska Basketball Faces Pivotal Week in Big Ten

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, January 13th 2026 at 10:20 GMT by Sports Illustrated

LINCOLN, Nebraska - January 13th, 2026 - The atmosphere surrounding Nebraska men's basketball is electric. Fresh off a significant victory against a top-five opponent, the Huskers are enjoying a level of success not seen in years, but the team understands that the Big Ten Conference season is just beginning. With a record of 12-3 overall and 3-1 in conference play, Nebraska faces a pivotal week that could either solidify their position among the league's elite or expose vulnerabilities.

Coach Fred Hoiberg, while acknowledging the positive momentum, emphasized the long road ahead. "We've got a long way to go," Hoiberg stated succinctly, highlighting the team's awareness that the current success isn't a guaranteed endpoint. This week presents a valuable opportunity to maintain that momentum and build upon the hard-earned wins.

The schedule for the next few days is demanding. Nebraska first travels to Minneapolis to face a struggling Minnesota Golden Gophers (8-6, 1-3) on Wednesday. The Gophers, despite their current record, are not to be underestimated. Led by forward Dawson Garcia, Minnesota possesses a potent offensive capability, capable of rapid scoring bursts. Hoiberg specifically noted the team's talent and shooting ability, stressing the need to control the game's tempo. "They've got a lot of talent... They're a team that can score in a hurry. We've got to make sure we control the tempo," he explained.

Following the road trip to Minnesota, the Huskers return home to face Maryland (9-5, 1-3) on Saturday. The Terrapins, while also facing challenges in conference play, represent another significant test. Maryland's offensive firepower is anchored by Jah Williams, widely considered one of the premier players in the Big Ten. Hoiberg described Maryland as a "tough team" with "good players", underlining the need for Nebraska to deliver a peak performance.

Nebraska's recent three-game winning streak has instilled a palpable confidence within the team. However, Coach Hoiberg remains committed to a disciplined and pragmatic approach. He views the team as a "work in progress," constantly striving for improvement. "We're a work in progress. We've still got a lot to learn. But we're getting better every day," he said, encapsulating the team's ongoing development.

The current success, Nebraska's best start in recent memory, is a testament to the players' dedication and coaching staff's strategy. However, the Big Ten Conference is known for its competitive intensity, and Hoiberg is well aware that complacency is the enemy of progress. The coach emphasized the importance of maintaining focus, continuing the relentless work ethic, and fostering unwavering self-belief. "We've got to stay focused. We've got to keep working hard. And we've got to keep believing in ourselves," Hoiberg urged, setting the tone for the crucial week ahead. The games against Minnesota and Maryland represent more than just wins or losses; they are vital opportunities to reinforce the team's identity and solidify their standing in the highly competitive Big Ten landscape. The fans in Lincoln are undoubtedly hoping to see the party continue.