Huskers Kick Off Season with Strong Exhibition Performances

Lincoln, Nebraska, October 4, 2025

The University of Nebraska men’s basketball team began the 2025-26 season with impressive victories over South Dakota State and UNO. Under Coach Fred Hoiberg, the team showcased enhanced perimeter shooting and defensive capabilities. Sophomore Jaden Jackson led the way, averaging 22 points per game. The exhibitions also highlighted the team’s depth and chemistry, with the bench contributing significantly. As Nebraska prepares for its non-conference schedule, hopes are high for a competitive season ahead.

Lincoln, Nebraska

The University of Nebraska men’s basketball team launched the 2025-26 season with commanding performances, defeating South Dakota State and the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) in consecutive exhibition games. Under the guidance of coach Fred Hoiberg, the Huskers showed marked improvements in perimeter shooting and defensive pressure, setting a positive tone for the upcoming campaign. Sophomore standout Jaden Jackson led the charge, averaging 22 points per game across the two matchups, while the team’s bench depth provided crucial support in both victories.

Key Game Highlights

In the opener against South Dakota State, the Jackrabbits held a halftime lead, but Nebraska mounted a strong second-half comeback to secure a 78-65 win. Jackson’s scoring prowess anchored the rally, complemented by effective ball movement and timely three-point shots. The Huskers’ defense tightened after the break, forcing turnovers and limiting the opponents’ inside scoring opportunities. The following day, Nebraska faced UNO and continued their dominant form, though specific scoring details for that game underscored the team’s overall rebounding edge and fast-break execution. These exhibitions highlighted the Huskers’ ability to adapt and elevate their play when challenged, with Jackson’s versatility on both ends of the floor proving invaluable.

Team Chemistry and Preparation

The successes stem from offseason developments, including a rigorous summer camp held in Omaha that fostered tighter-knit team dynamics. This preparation emphasized conditioning drills, skill refinement, and strategic walkthroughs, which translated directly to on-court cohesion during the exhibitions. Hoiberg’s focus on integrating new players with returning veterans allowed for seamless rotations, particularly from the bench units that contributed significantly to pacing and energy. Fans at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln witnessed a squad that not only executed plays efficiently but also displayed resilience under pressure, drawing enthusiastic support from the local community.

Looking Ahead to Non-Conference Play

As the regular non-conference schedule begins, Nebraska enters with momentum, aiming for a competitive edge in Big Ten matchups and a potential deep NCAA tournament run. The exhibitions served as a testing ground for rotations and adjustments, revealing strengths in offensive spacing and defensive schemes that could challenge future opponents. Jackson’s emergence as a scoring threat, paired with improved team-wide shooting accuracy—evident in multiple long-range makes per game—positions the Huskers favorably. Defensive intensity, marked by aggressive steals and blocked shots, addressed previous season vulnerabilities, suggesting a more balanced roster capable of sustaining leads and closing out tight contests.

These early wins underscore Nebraska’s preparation and talent, with the full season offering opportunities to build on this foundation. The team’s performance has generated excitement among supporters, who packed the arena and voiced optimism for sustained success throughout the year.

FAQ

Key Performance Chart

The following chart summarizes the key features of Nebraska’s exhibition games, focusing on scoring average, game outcome against SDSU, and preparation highlights.

Feature	Details
Jaden Jackson Scoring Average	22 points per game
Game vs. South Dakota State	78-65 win after halftime rally
Opponents Defeated	South Dakota State and UNO
Preparation Method	Rigorous summer camp in Omaha
Season Goals	Deep NCAA tournament run

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