Nebraska Cornhuskers Aim for Third Straight Win Against Washington Huskies

SEATTLE, Wash. — The Nebraska Cornhuskers (14-8, 4-7 Big Ten) will face the Washington Huskies (11-10, 2-8) on Wednesday night at Alaska Airlines Arena, aiming for their third consecutive victory. The game, set to tip off at 9:30 p.m. CT, will be broadcast on the Big Ten Network.

Nebraska enters the matchup fresh off a 77-71 win over No. 21 Oregon, a game where their defense shined. The Cornhuskers held Oregon to just 5-of-20 from beyond the arc, continuing a trend of strong defensive performances. “We’ve gotten our identity back,” said Nebraska head coach Fred Hoiberg. “That was the biggest thing for me—to play consistently on the defensive end.”

Washington, meanwhile, is looking to build momentum after snapping a six-game losing streak with a 71-68 victory over Minnesota. The Huskies, led by first-year head coach Danny Sprinkle, are anchored by senior forward Great Osobor, who averages 15.5 points and 8.7 rebounds per game. Osobor has been on a tear recently, averaging 21.2 points over his last five games.

The matchup also features a reunion of sorts. Nebraska center Braxton Meah, who started the first 17 games for the Huskies this season, will face his former team. Meanwhile, Washington’s Wilhelm Breidenbach, a former Cornhusker, will look to make an impact against his old squad.

Nebraska’s offense revolves around senior guard Brice Williams, who has elevated his game this season, averaging 19 points per game on 47/36/89 shooting splits. Williams’ ability to score from all three levels makes him a tough matchup for Washington’s defense. “Expect Tyler Harris to initially get the assignment,” said one analyst, “but Williams is strong enough to bully Harris and should have a big game.”

Despite Williams’ individual brilliance, Nebraska’s offense has struggled in Big Ten play, ranking 17th in offensive efficiency. The team shoots just 30% from three-point range and 69% from the free-throw line in conference games. However, their defense has been a bright spot, ranking 32nd nationally in adjusted defensive efficiency. Nebraska’s strategy focuses on limiting opponents’ scoring in the paint, forcing teams to beat them from the perimeter.

Washington, on the other hand, relies heavily on Osobor’s interior scoring and ability to draw fouls. The Huskies will need strong performances from guards Tyler Harris and Zoom Diallo, who combine for 22.9 points per game. Harris, in particular, has been a sharpshooter, hitting 47% of his three-point attempts this season.

The game is crucial for both teams as they jockey for position in the Big Ten standings. Nebraska, currently 50th in the NET rankings, is looking to bolster its NCAA Tournament resume. Washington, meanwhile, is fighting to climb out of the conference cellar and keep its postseason hopes alive.

Tip-off is set for 9:30 p.m. CT, with coverage on the Big Ten Network and the Huskers Radio Network.