Nebraska Basketball: Can They Make a March Madness Run?
As the 2024-2025 college basketball season unfolds, the Nebraska Cornhuskers are looking to make a statement in the NCAA Tournament. With a program that has faced ups and downs in recent years, the big question on the minds of fans and analysts alike is whether Nebraska can make a deep March Madness run this season. With the right mix of talent, coaching, and momentum, the Cornhuskers could find themselves competing for a spot in the Big Dance. But what are the key factors that will determine if they can make it all the way to the tournament's final stages?
Nebraska’s Recent History: Searching for Consistency
The Nebraska basketball program has a rich history, but in recent years, it has struggled to consistently compete in the upper echelon of the Big Ten. Historically, Nebraska has made a few NCAA Tournament appearances, but those have been sporadic, with the team often falling short of expectations.
In the 2023-2024 season, Nebraska showed signs of progress under head coach Fred Hoiberg, but inconsistency still plagued them. Despite strong individual performances from players like Juwan Gary and Derrick Walker, the Cornhuskers could not string together enough victories in a competitive Big Ten Conference to earn a tournament bid.
Now, in the 2024-2025 season, the focus is on building a more consistent, balanced team that can challenge for a spot in March Madness. With a new crop of recruits and some key returners, Nebraska is hoping to build on their recent improvements and break through into the NCAA Tournament.
Key Players: The Cornerstones of Nebraska’s Success
For Nebraska to make a March Madness run, the performance of key players will be crucial. The Cornhuskers have several talents who could make a big impact on both ends of the court, and their development throughout the season will determine Nebraska’s tournament chances.
Derrick Walker, the senior forward, is perhaps the most important player on Nebraska’s roster. Walker has proven to be a reliable scorer and rebounder, and his experience is vital for the Cornhuskers. As one of the leaders on the team, Walker will be counted on to provide consistency in scoring, leadership, and defense, particularly in big games where every possession counts.
Juwan Gary, a versatile forward, is another player to watch. Gary’s athleticism, ability to defend multiple positions, and scoring ability make him a dynamic player on both ends of the floor. He’s capable of taking over games when necessary, and if he can continue to develop as a key scorer for Nebraska, he could help elevate the team’s performance in tough Big Ten matchups.
Additionally, Keisei Tominaga, a sharpshooter from beyond the arc, brings a much-needed scoring option to the perimeter. If Tominaga can be consistent from three-point range and contribute to spacing the floor, Nebraska’s offense could become much more dynamic, making them harder to defend as a team.
Finally, Blaise Keita, a 7-foot center, adds an imposing presence inside. Keita's size and ability to protect the rim will be crucial for Nebraska’s defense, especially against stronger, more athletic teams in the Big Ten. If he can develop offensively, Keita could become a significant contributor to the Cornhuskers’ success.
