No. 7 Huskers Fall in OT, 80-77

Nebraska erases 22-point deficit but can't complete comeback against No. 13 Purdue

Feb. 11, 2026 at 4:07pm

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The No. 7 Nebraska Cornhuskers erased a 22-point second-half deficit to force overtime against No. 13 Purdue, but ultimately fell 80-77 in the extra period. The Huskers trailed 46-24 with 18:55 remaining before mounting a furious comeback, using an 18-2 run to get within 57-53 with 5:20 left. However, Purdue responded with a 10-0 run to seemingly take control. Nebraska battled back again, outscoring the Boilermakers 15-1 down the stretch to force overtime. In the extra period, Purdue regained the lead and held on for the victory.

Why it matters

This was a tough loss for the 21-3 Huskers, who were looking to solidify their position as one of the top teams in the Big Ten. The comeback effort showed the team's resilience, but they ultimately came up short against a talented Purdue squad. The game highlighted Nebraska's ability to battle back from large deficits, but also exposed some areas for improvement, particularly on the boards where Purdue dominated.

The details

Nebraska trailed 46-24 with 18:55 remaining before mounting a furious 18-2 run to get within 57-53 with 5:20 left. Purdue then responded with a 10-0 run, but the Huskers battled back again, outscoring the Boilermakers 15-1 down the stretch to force overtime. In the extra period, Purdue regained the lead and held on for the 80-77 victory. Rienk Mast led Nebraska with 18 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists, while Jamarques Lawrence added 16 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Purdue was led by Loyer's 18 points and Braden Smith's 13 points and 10 assists.

  • The Huskers trailed 46-24 with 18:55 remaining in the second half.
  • Nebraska used an 18-2 run to get within 57-53 with 5:20 left in regulation.
  • The game went to overtime after Nebraska tied it at 68 with 12.8 seconds left in regulation.

The players

Rienk Mast

A senior for the Nebraska Cornhuskers who finished with 18 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists in the game.

Jamarques Lawrence

A Nebraska player who scored 16 points, grabbed 5 rebounds and dished out 4 assists.

C.J. Cox

A Purdue player who hit three 3-pointers and finished with 11 points.

Oscar Cluff

A Purdue player who had a key putback basket late in overtime to give Purdue the lead for good.

Braden Smith

The Purdue player who had 13 points and 10 assists in the game.

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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

The takeaway

This game showcased Nebraska's ability to battle back from large deficits, but also highlighted areas for improvement, particularly on the boards where Purdue dominated. The Huskers will look to bounce back on Saturday when they host Northwestern on Alumni Weekend.