October 22, 2025

Omaha Mavericks Secure Victory in Exhibition Opener

Baxter Arena, Omaha, October 22, 2025

The Omaha Mavericks men’s basketball team began their exhibition season with an 85-72 win over a local junior college at Baxter Arena. Darius McPhee led the team with 22 points, showcasing his shooting skills, while Jakob Wright contributed a double-double with 18 points and 12 rebounds. The bench significantly impacted the game, adding 35 points and helping maintain momentum. Coach Derrin Hansen emphasized the importance of team depth as they prepare for the upcoming regular season in the competitive Summit League.

Omaha

The Omaha Mavericks men’s basketball team kicked off their exhibition season with an 85-72 victory over a local junior college team at Baxter Arena. This win marks the beginning of preseason preparations as the team builds momentum ahead of their regular season start in November.

Transfer guard Darius McPhee led the scoring effort with 22 points, including four three-pointers that highlighted his shooting accuracy from beyond the arc. His performance provided an early spark, demonstrating the impact of recent roster additions. Forward Jakob Wright also shone brightly, contributing 18 points and securing 12 rebounds to dominate the interior game. Wright’s double-double underscored the team’s strength in the paint, helping control the boards and limit second-chance opportunities for the opponents.

The bench played a crucial role in the outcome, adding 35 points to the tally. This depth was a key factor in maintaining leads throughout the game, allowing starters to manage their energy effectively. Coach Derrin Hansen expressed satisfaction with the reserves’ contributions, noting that such balance will be essential during the demanding Summit League schedule. The exhibition exposed areas for improvement, including some visible rust from the offseason, but the team showed resilience in adapting to game speed.

Defensively, the Mavericks forced 18 turnovers from the junior college squad, converting those mistakes into transition points and disrupting offensive flow. This aggressive approach helped build an early advantage that the team never relinquished. While the final margin was 13 points, the game remained competitive in stretches, serving as a valuable test for the reloaded roster.

Preseason Momentum and Roster Outlook

The victory improves the Mavericks’ preseason record and sets a positive tone as they gear up for the November tip-off. Fans in attendance at Baxter Arena witnessed a preview of the team’s potential, with new transfers like McPhee integrating seamlessly into the lineup. The emphasis on bench production signals a strategic focus on rotation depth, which could prove vital in a conference known for its physicality and close contests.

Exhibition games like this one allow coaches to experiment with lineups and refine strategies without the pressure of regular-season implications. For Omaha, the win highlights progress in areas such as perimeter shooting and rebounding, while also identifying defensive lapses that need tightening. As the Summit League grind approaches, maintaining this level of intensity will be critical for a team aiming to compete at the top of the standings.

Team Background and Season Context

The Omaha Mavericks compete in the Summit League, where they face tough regional rivals each year. Last season, the team showed flashes of promise but struggled with consistency, finishing with a record that left them hungry for improvement. This year’s roster features several transfers and returning veterans, creating a mix of experience and fresh talent designed to elevate performance.

Baxter Arena has been the Mavericks’ home since 2015, providing a modern venue that enhances the fan experience. Exhibition play against local junior college teams is a common preseason tactic, offering competitive minutes while supporting community programs. These games help build team chemistry and give supporters an early look at what to expect.

Looking ahead, the Mavericks’ schedule includes non-conference matchups to sharpen skills before diving into league play. The focus on defense and depth, as demonstrated in this exhibition, positions the team well for challenges ahead. With McPhee’s sharpshooting and Wright’s interior presence anchoring the core, Omaha enters the season with renewed optimism.

The exhibition win encapsulates the hard work put in during the offseason, from weight room sessions to practice drills. As November nears, the Mavericks will continue fine-tuning, ensuring they arrive at the regular season ready to contend. For a program building steadily, this early success serves as a foundation for greater achievements.

FAQ

What was the score of the Omaha Mavericks’ exhibition game?

The Omaha Mavericks men’s basketball team opened exhibition play with an 85-72 win over a local junior college squad at Baxter Arena.

Who were the standout players in the game?

Transfer guard Darius McPhee dropped 22 points, including four three-pointers, showcasing his sharpshooting. Forward Jakob Wright dominated the paint with 18 points and 12 rebounds.

How did the bench contribute to the victory?

Coach Derrin Hansen was pleased with the bench’s 35-point contribution, stressing depth for the Summit League grind.

What defensive strengths were shown?

Despite some rust, the defense forced 18 turnovers.

What is the significance of this game for the team?

UNO improves preseason momentum, gearing up for the November tip-off. Fans got a preview of a reloaded roster promising excitement this season.

Key Game Statistics

Category	Details
Final Score	85-72 (Win for Omaha Mavericks)
Top Scorer	Darius McPhee: 22 points, 4 three-pointers
Double-Double	Jakob Wright: 18 points, 12 rebounds
Bench Points	35 points
Defensive Turnovers Forced	18
Location	Baxter Arena
Opponent	Local junior college squad