Nebrasketball

Hiding in the shadow of other Nebraska Athletic powerhouses, namely football, volleyball, and bowling, the Cornhusker basketball team has been turning some heads and earning some respect this season. Currently at 16-8, with big wins over conference foes #11 ranked Texas A&M, Colorado, and Oklahoma St. as well as  USC and TCU, the Husker men have shown much improvement from last year's disappointing 15-18 season. Being a season ticket holder the past two seasons, I have been privileged to view Nebraska's improved play the past few months first hand, as the games where they have played well have been very entertaining to watch.  Much of the credit goes to the senior leadership of point guard Lance Jeter, as well as Doc Sadler's stellar second half defense that has held opponents to the 10th best defensive points allowed a game, and 19th in second half margin in the nation.

The Huskers success this season has stemmed from the emergence of some key starters, as well as a slew of role players that contribute their minutes and statistics. Lance Jeter has been the number one asset, no contest. His 11.1 pts, 4.5 ast, 3.8 rbd, and 1.9 stl are a great statistical example of one of the best finishers in transition in the nation. Brian Diaz, Nebraska's 6'11 starting post, has been improving in his sophomore campaign as a more consistent scoring presence inside. His 10.4 pts are ample for the deep Husker roster, but his 4.4 rbd leave much to be desired from his position. Toney McCray has seen his playing time increase to a starting spot on the roster throughout conference play. After dropping 23 pts in 24 minutes against Baylor last week, McCray's averages are up to 7.8 pts and 4.3 rbd. Off the bench, home-grown product Drake Beranek provides a major spark on both sides of the ball upon his entrance. Originally from Ravenna High School north of Kearney, Beranek lead the UNK Lopers team in scoring his last two seasons averaging  11.1, 20.5, and 21.9 pts his three years respectively. I had the chance to compete against Drake and his brothers throughout high school, and their huge work ethic and passion for the game are large reasons for the family's success on multiple levels. Beranek has averaged 5 pts this season and nearly always covers the other teams best guard upon checking into the game. Other contributions by Caleb Walker (leading rebounder) , Brandon Ubel and Andre Almeida (inside presences), Brandon Richardson (outside shooting and defense), and Eshaunte Jones (outside shooting) have been key to the Huskers improvement this year.

Jeter

Diaz

McCray

Beranek

The Huskers need to finish out their final 6 conference regular season games strong, most likely needing at least 4 wins over the six teams that include #3 Texas, Kansas St. (Who just beat former #1 Kansas), and #20 Missouri, as well as a strong showing in the conference tourney to have a shot at a Tournament bid. The Huskers have proven the ability to play well enough to play with and beat high ranked teams, but their consistency could prove difficult to win multiple of those games.

 Despite lack of respect for the program, administration issues, questionable halftime performances, and a tough conference schedule, the Huskers have been at least showing up every game this season, something that hasn't always happened. Here's to hoping that they do perform in the clutch, in the chance that maybe one Husker team performs in the postseason.

-Jarid Holliday