In a matchup that felt more like March than late January, No. 3 Michigan handed No. 5 Nebraska its first loss of the season with a thrilling 75–72 victory Tuesday night at Crisler Center, snapping the Cornhuskers’ 24-game winning streak in one of the most intense games of the college basketball season.
From the opening tip, the contest lived up to its billing. Nebraska entered unbeaten at 20–0, riding momentum, confidence, and one of the nation’s most disciplined defenses. Michigan countered with pace, depth, and the unmistakable energy of a sold-out home crowd. What followed was a heavyweight battle defined by shot-making, physicality, and late-game execution.
The first half set the tone. Nebraska shot efficiently and matched Michigan possession for possession, taking a slim 50–48 lead into the break behind strong guard play from Jamarques Lawrence and Pryce Sandfort. Michigan refused to blink, keeping the game close through offensive rebounding and interior presence, particularly from Morez Johnson Jr., who was a force on the glass all night.
The second half turned into a grind. Every basket mattered, every defensive stop felt massive. Michigan gradually wrestled control by winning the possession battle, finishing with a significant rebounding edge that proved decisive. The Wolverines generated extra chances, attacked the rim, and lived at the free-throw line, converting 19 of 23 attempts compared to Nebraska’s limited trips.
Nebraska had opportunities late. Sandfort knocked down timely shots, Lawrence continued to apply pressure, and Sam Hoiberg’s leadership steadied the Huskers during key moments. But turnovers and second-chance points swung momentum back to Michigan, and the Wolverines made just enough plays in the final minutes to hold off Nebraska’s comeback push.
When the final horn sounded, Michigan had secured its most impressive win of the season — and Nebraska had absorbed its first setback.
For the Cornhuskers, the loss stings, but it hardly diminishes what they’ve built. Nebraska proved it belongs among the nation’s elite, trading blows with a Top-3 team on the road and pushing the game to the final possession. The perfect record is gone, but the résumé only grew stronger.
For Michigan, the win was a statement. In a game defined by toughness and composure, the Wolverines showed why they remain a national title contender — and why the road to March will go through environments just like this one.
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