Hold onto your hats, basketball fans, because Nebraska is making history! In a thrilling showdown on December 21, 2025, the No. 15 Nebraska Cornhuskers dominated North Dakota 78-55, securing their best-ever start at 12-0. But here's where it gets even more impressive: Berke Buyuktuncel didn't just play—he dominated with a rare triple-double, racking up 12 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists. Talk about a game-changer!
Nebraska’s victory wasn’t without its challenges, though. After a shaky first half marked by shooting struggles, the Huskers stormed back in the second half with a jaw-dropping 19-6 run. And this is the part most people miss: Buyuktuncel’s free throw just 1:08 into the half gave Nebraska their first lead of the game, setting the stage for a commanding performance. Jamarques Lawrence quickly followed with a clutch 3-pointer, extending their lead to four points and never looking back.
North Dakota briefly reclaimed the lead on Garrett Anderson’s 3-pointer, but Nebraska’s dynamic trio of Buyuktuncel, Lawrence, and Sam Hoiberg responded with an unstoppable 13-0 run. By the time Lawrence sunk a jumper with 11:15 left, the Huskers were up 43-32, and the game was effectively in their control. Nebraska’s largest lead of 25 points left no doubt about their dominance, with North Dakota unable to close the gap below 10 in the final nine minutes.
For Nebraska, Braden Frager led all scorers with 17 points off the bench, while Hoiberg added 15 and Lawrence chipped in 13. North Dakota’s Eli King and Marley Curtis kept things competitive with 13 and 10 points, respectively, but it wasn’t enough to stop the Huskers’ momentum.
Here’s the controversial question: Is Nebraska’s historic start a fluke, or are they a legitimate contender this season? With their balanced scoring, tenacious defense, and Buyuktuncel’s all-around brilliance, they’re certainly making a case for the latter. But what do you think? Let us know in the comments!
Looking ahead, North Dakota will look to bounce back when they host Dakota State on December 28, while Nebraska continues their quest for perfection against New Hampshire on December 30. Will the Huskers keep their undefeated streak alive? Only time will tell. Stay tuned, because this season is just heating up!
