Nebraska Men's Basketball Faces Tough February Schedule

Huskers look to build on strong start to the season with key Big Ten matchups

Jan. 31, 2026 at 12:15pm

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The Nebraska men's basketball team is coming off a close loss to Michigan and faces a challenging February schedule, including games against top-10 opponents Illinois and Purdue. The Huskers have 10 regular-season games remaining, plus at least one game in the Big Ten Tournament, before the NCAA Tournament begins in mid-March.

Why it matters

Nebraska has emerged as one of the top teams in the Big Ten this season, with a 20-1 record and 9-1 conference mark. The Huskers' performance in February will be crucial in determining their seeding and positioning for the NCAA Tournament.

The details

Nebraska's loss to Michigan was a close, competitive game that the Huskers had a chance to win, even without two key players. The team will look to make adjustments and learn from that experience. The Huskers' other major February games include a rematch with Illinois, a home matchup against Purdue, and a road trip to USC.

  • Nebraska lost to Michigan on January 31.
  • Nebraska hosts Illinois on February 1.
  • Nebraska plays at Rutgers on February 7.
  • Nebraska hosts Purdue on February 10.
  • Nebraska hosts Northwestern on February 14.
  • Nebraska plays at Iowa on February 17.
  • Nebraska hosts Penn State on February 21.
  • Nebraska hosts Maryland on February 25.
  • Nebraska plays at USC on February 28.

The players

Rienk Mast

A Nebraska player who missed the Michigan game due to illness.

Braden Frager

A Nebraska player who is day-to-day with an ankle sprain.

Braden Smith

An All-American guard for Purdue who could have a compelling matchup with Nebraska guard Sam Hoiberg.

Pryce Sandfort

Nebraska's leading scorer who transferred from Iowa, adding intrigue to the game against the Hawkeyes.

Morez Johnson Jr.

A Michigan forward who battled Nebraska guard Sam Hoiberg for a rebound during the game between the two teams.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.