Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
In a gripping nonconference matchup on Tuesday night in Lincoln, Nebraska, Rienk Mast delivered a stellar performance, netting 31 points—22 scored in the second half—to guide Nebraska to an 80-73 win against Winthrop. His impressive shooting, including 11-for-18 from the field and 7-for-10 from beyond the arc, provided the Cornhuskers with crucial momentum when it was needed most.
Joining Mast in the scoring efforts, both Braden Frager and Cale Jacobsen contributed 11 points each for Nebraska, which now boasts a flawless record of 7-0 for the season. The Cornhuskers achieved a shooting percentage of 42% overall, making 13 of their 38 three-point attempts (34.2%). Their well-rounded offensive display proved vital in offsetting Winthrop’s strength on the boards, securing a narrow yet important victory.
The Eagles of Winthrop (3-4) were led in scoring by Kareem Rozier with 14 points, complemented by Daylen Berry’s 12 points and Pharrell Boyogueno’s 11. Capitalizing on the absence of Nebraska’s forward Berke Buyuktuncel due to an ankle injury, Winthrop dominated the glass with a 48-38 rebounding advantage. They kept the game competitive, exchanging leads with the Cornhuskers throughout.
With Winthrop ahead 36-32 at halftime, Nebraska struggled from long range initially, hitting just 4 of 22 three-pointers (18.2%). However, a strong start in the second half saw the Cornhuskers make four early three-pointers, subsequently gaining a 44-42 lead with 15:54 still on the clock. Mast’s scoring and their enhanced shooting in the latter half turned the tables.
Nebraska built its lead to 59-51 thanks to a three-pointer from Mast with 8:40 remaining. Mast’s hot performance continued as he launched another two three-pointers in an impressive 8-0 solo run. The Cornhuskers pushed their lead to as high as 13 points with just over five minutes to go, though they faced a determined comeback from Winthrop. The Eagles responded with five consecutive successful shots, narrowing the score to 72-69 after a Rozier three-pointer at 1:45.
In a tense finale, Nebraska reasserted control with back-to-back successful possessions, ultimately clinching the game at 80-73. This victory marks their impressive 11-game win streak, the longest in the nation currently. Nebraska’s blend of sharp shooting, diverse scoring options, and clutch plays proved essential to withstanding Winthrop’s late-game pressure.
Following this spirited clash, Winthrop will host South Carolina State on Saturday, while Nebraska will head home to face off against South Carolina Upstate. Each team aims to build on its latest efforts, with Nebraska looking to continue its undefeated run and Winthrop hoping to bounce back from the heartbreak of a close loss.
Rienk Mast’s explosive second-half scoring exemplifies the depth and resilience of Nebraska’s squad. With vital contributions from Frager, Jacobsen, and robust team play, the Cornhuskers are showcasing significant promise this season. Despite the defeat, Winthrop demonstrated commendable grit and competitiveness, making the matchup thrilling for the audience.
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