Nebraska Basketball Heads to Big Ten Tournament

Huskers coach Fred Hoiberg and players discuss team's preparations

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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The University of Nebraska men's basketball team is gearing up for the 2026 Big Ten tournament in Chicago. Head coach Fred Hoiberg and several players spoke to reporters in Lincoln ahead of the team's trip, discussing the team's preparations and outlook for the tournament.

Why it matters

Nebraska is looking to make a strong showing in the Big Ten tournament after a challenging regular season. The Huskers are hoping to build momentum and potentially earn a spot in the NCAA tournament with a deep run in the conference championship.

The details

During the press conference, Hoiberg highlighted the team's focus on improving its defense and execution in key situations. Several players also spoke about the team's chemistry and determination to prove themselves on the big stage of the Big Ten tournament.

  • The 2026 Big Ten men's basketball tournament will take place in Chicago from March 12-16.
  • Nebraska's press conference was held on March 10, 2026, two days before the team's first tournament game.

The players

Fred Hoiberg

The head coach of the Nebraska men's basketball team, who is in his sixth season leading the Huskers program.

Bryce McGowens

A sophomore guard for the Nebraska Cornhuskers, who is the team's leading scorer this season.

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What they’re saying

“We know we have our work cut out for us, but the guys have been putting in the effort and I'm confident we can make some noise in this tournament.”

— Fred Hoiberg, Head Coach (journalstar.com)

“This is the time of year we've been preparing for. We're ready to leave it all on the floor and show what we can do.”

— Bryce McGowens, Sophomore Guard (journalstar.com)

What’s next

The Huskers will open the Big Ten tournament on March 12 against the 5th-seeded team. A win would advance them to the quarterfinals on March 13.

The takeaway

Nebraska is hoping to use the Big Ten tournament as a springboard to the NCAA tournament, with the team's focus on defensive improvement and team chemistry as keys to a potential deep run in the conference championship.