The Nebraska Cornhuskers journeyed to Las Vegas for a three-week stay after missing out on the NCAA tournament, hoping to make the most of their time there. Their efforts paid off, as they emerged victorious in the first-ever College Basketball Crown, defeating the UCF Knights 77-66 and claiming the $300,000 prize. The game was tied at 35 at halftime, with UCF taking an early lead in the second half. However, Nebraska mounted a remarkable comeback, outscoring UCF 42-17 in the final 14:36 to secure the win.
The Knights opened the second half with a 14-0 run, but the Cornhuskers quickly responded with a 24-3 run of their own, taking a six-point lead with 7:27 remaining. Although UCF managed to cut the lead to four, Nebraska continued to push ahead and separate themselves from their opponents. Juwan Gary, named the tournament’s MVP, led the way with 20 points and eight rebounds, while Brice Williams and Connor Essegian each contributed 21 points. UCF’s Jordan Ivy-Curry put up an impressive 29 points in the losing effort.
Nebraska’s victory was fueled by their sharpshooting from beyond the arc, as they shot 42.9% from three-point range, making 9 out of 21 attempts. In contrast, UCF struggled from long range, shooting just 24.1% on 7-for-29 shooting. The Cornhuskers displayed a balanced offensive attack and locked in defensively to secure their championship victory in Las Vegas. The win was a testament to their resilience and ability to make crucial adjustments during the game.
After the game, UCONN coach Geno Auriemma shared an emotional embrace with Paige Bueckers, delivering a three-word message to the young player in a moment of celebration. The Nebraska Cornhuskers’ journey to Las Vegas may have been unexpected but proved to be a rewarding experience as they emerged victorious in a highly competitive tournament. The team’s determination, skill, and teamwork were evident throughout the championship game, as they overcame a tough opponent in UCF. The Cornhuskers’ success in the College Basketball Crown will be a memorable achievement for the program and its players.
As the Cornhuskers celebrate their championship win, they can look back on their time in Las Vegas with pride and satisfaction, knowing that their hard work and perseverance paid off. Their victory in the College Basketball Crown serves as a reminder of the team’s resilience and ability to rise to the occasion when faced with adversity. Nebraska’s impressive performance in the tournament will not be forgotten, and they will now carry the title of champions as they continue their journey in the world of college basketball.
