Despite Three Losses, Huskers Remain In Top Ten

Four Big Ten teams ranked this week in the AP Top Ten. NU falls from #7 to No. 9 after losing to Purdue 80-77 and beating Northwestern 68-49.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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The Nebraska Cornhuskers men's basketball team has fallen from #7 to #9 in the latest AP Top Ten rankings, despite suffering three losses in their recent games. The Huskers lost to Purdue 80-77 but bounced back to beat Northwestern 68-49. Four Big Ten teams are currently ranked in the Top Ten, including #1 Michigan, #7 Purdue, #10 Illinois, and #9 Nebraska.

Why it matters

The Big Ten conference is highly competitive this season, with several teams vying for the regular season championship. Nebraska's performance and ranking will be closely watched as they aim to win the conference title.

The details

Nebraska's recent losses came against Purdue and a win against Northwestern. The Huskers now sit at #9 in the AP Top Ten rankings, down from #7 previously. Four Big Ten teams are currently ranked in the Top Ten, with Michigan at #1, Purdue at #7, Illinois at #10, and Nebraska at #9.

  • Nebraska lost to Purdue 80-77 on February 14, 2026.
  • Nebraska beat Northwestern 68-49 on February 14, 2026.

The players

Pryce Sandfort

Nebraska Cornhuskers forward.

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What’s next

Nebraska has a chance to win the Big Ten regular season championship, but will need some help from the other top teams in the conference. Michigan, Purdue, and Illinois all have tough remaining schedules, which could open the door for Nebraska if they can win out.

The takeaway

Despite their recent losses, Nebraska remains in the Top Ten rankings and has a chance to win the Big Ten regular season title. The Huskers will need to continue their strong play and hope for some stumbles from the other top teams in the conference.