The Nebraska men’s basketball team is set to square off against the Kansas State Wildcats in a highly anticipated title game at the Hall of Fame Classic. This matchup will take place at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, starting at 8:30 p.m. The game will be available for streaming on Peacock and through the Huskers Radio Network, as well as on Huskers.com and the Huskers app. Fans can purchase tickets at t-mobilecenter.com.
Tournament Background
This marks Nebraska’s second appearance in the Hall of Fame Classic title game, with their last participation occurring in 2018. The Huskers aim to become the first Big Ten team to secure the tournament title since Maryland accomplished it in 2014.
Team Performance and Standings
Presently, Nebraska holds a 5-0 record after a decisive 84-72 win over New Mexico. Jamarques Lawrence led the Huskers with 21 points, while Braden Frager contributed 20 points and eight rebounds from the bench. The Huskers dominated the game early, establishing a 22-5 lead and maintaining their advantage despite a second-half rally from New Mexico.
- Nebraska’s performance highlights include:
- 13 three-pointers made, with four each from Lawrence and Frager.
- This victory extends Nebraska’s winning streak to nine games, the longest in the nation.
- The team averages 88.0 points per game, showcasing a balanced offense with four players scoring in double figures.
Kansas State’s Strength
Kansas State also boasts an undefeated record of 5-0, having advanced to the title game after a commanding 98-77 win against Mississippi State. PJ Haggerty shone with 37 points, seven rebounds, and eight assists, leading a strong team effort. The Wildcats shot 57 percent from the field in the second half of their previous game.
Statistical Comparisons
- Nebraska’s scoring details:
- Average points per game: 88.0
- Leading scorers: Pryce Sandfort (15.6 ppg), Rienk Mast (15.4 ppg)
- Kansas State’s scoring details:
- Average points per game: 94.4
- Leading scorer: PJ Haggerty (28.2 ppg)
Historical Context
The matchup marks the 224th meeting between these long-time conference rivals, with Kansas State holding a 129-94 advantage in the all-time series. Nebraska won their most recent encounter, 62-46, on December 17, 2023.
Key Milestones
As Nebraska prepares for the title game, several milestones are on the horizon:
- A win against Kansas State will extend Nebraska’s winning streak, marking the first double-digit win streak since the 2010-11 season.
- The Huskers also look to continue their dominance in non-conference play, having won 16 straight non-conference games since November 2024.
As anticipation builds for the Hall of Fame Classic title game, fans are eagerly awaiting a thrilling showdown between two high-scoring offenses. Nebraska seeks not only to secure the championship but also to solidify its position as a formidable contender in college basketball this season.
